Iris Flower Bulbs
Few spring bulbs carry as much history as the iris — a flower whose very name is Greek for "rainbow," a nod to the huge range of colors it comes in.
A Flower Steeped in Symbolism
Native to Europe, the iris has been cultivated into more than 200 varieties, spanning bold colors bred over centuries. It held a prominent place in ancient Greek and Egyptian culture, and became especially tied to France, where it served as a long-standing emblem of royalty and the upper classes.
What the Iris Represents
Gardeners and gift-givers alike have long read the iris as a symbol of hope, thanks to its confident color emerging straight from the soil each spring. It's also associated with wisdom and valor, and its stately bearing makes it a popular gift for someone recovering from illness — a burst of color meant to lift the room.
Plant iris bulbs (rhizomes) in late summer to early fall so they can establish roots before winter — they'll reward you with blooms the following spring.
