Iris sibirica Silver Edge

Elegant and refined, Iris sibirica ‘Silver Edge’ is a graceful perennial that brings movement and cool sophistication to the garden. Its beautifully formed flowers appear in late spring and early summer, displaying rich violet-blue petals delicately highlighted with a subtle silvery-white edge, giving the blooms a luminous quality in the border.

Rising above slender, upright foliage, the flowers sway gently on tall stems, creating a natural, flowing effect that works wonderfully in cottage gardens, contemporary planting schemes and wildlife-friendly borders. The narrow, grass-like leaves remain attractive throughout the growing season, forming neat clumps that provide structure even after flowering has finished.

Siberian irises are renowned for their hardiness, reliability and low maintenance, thriving in moist but well-drained soils and performing particularly well near ponds, streams or in damp borders. Their nectar-rich blooms also attract bees and other pollinators, making them a valuable addition to any garden focused on supporting wildlife.

Planted in groups, Iris ‘Silver Edge’ creates an elegant drift of cool colour, pairing beautifully with ornamental grasses, astrantias, geraniums and other early summer perennials.

RHS Award of Garden Merit.

This plant/cultivar has been awarded the RHS Award of Garden Merit because it has proved to be reliable in appropriate conditions and a good performing plant. 

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Iris sibirica in spring or autumn when the soil is workable. Avoid planting into frozen or waterlogged soil.

Where to Plant:
Choose a position in full sun or light partial shade with moist but well-drained soil. Siberian irises are ideal for borders, naturalistic planting schemes and areas near ponds or streams where soil remains slightly moist.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant with the crown just at or slightly below the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space plants about 40–50 cm (16–20 inches) apart.
• Soil Prep: Improve soil with garden compost or well-rotted organic matter before planting.

Watering:
Water well after planting and keep the soil consistently moist while plants establish. Siberian irises appreciate moisture but should not sit in stagnant water.

Aftercare Tips:

• Remove faded flowers to keep plants tidy.
• Cut back foliage in late autumn once it begins to yellow.
• Divide established clumps every 3–4 years to maintain vigour.

Top Tip:
Plant Iris sibirica in small groups or drifts for the most natural effect. The elegant flowers of ‘Silver Edge’ look particularly beautiful combined with ornamental grasses, astrantias and early summer perennials.

Plant Details

Flowering Period
May – June

Height
70–90 cm

Spread
40–50 cm

Position
Full sun or partial shade

Hardiness
Fully hardy perennial (H5)