Photo: Feel free to use my photos, but please mention me as the author and if you want send me a message. o, CC BY-SA 3.0 at · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Siberian iris: when and how to prune
Iris sibirica
Siberian iris is best pruned in February, June and November.
| Pruning months | February, June and November |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–June |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Siberian iris: when to prune it?
Cut off the dead leaves in November or, if you leave them over winter, in February. Spent flower stems can go in June.
What else to prune in those months? February · June · November
Siberian iris: how to prune it?
- Cut the brown leaves down to just above the ground before the new shoots appear.
- Cut spent flower stems off at the base if you do not want seed pods.
- Leave the seed pods if you like them: they decorate the winter border.
- No other pruning is needed.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 3 pruning periods a year: February, June and November. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Siberian iris flowers in May–June, when it attracts bees.
- If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
Caution: If you leave the seed pods, seedlings may appear that flower differently from the parent plant. Siberian iris is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Siberian iris · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.