The Structure of the Iris Flower

Iris blossoms have a distinctive structure that sets them apart.

Irises have blossoms that have been highly valued for centuries by gardeners and by artists. While there is no seeming end to the color combinations possible, their structure is what makes the flowers easily recognized.

Crest

The crest of an iris is the feathery area at the center of the blossom that surrounds the flower's reproductive organs. The crests of some varieties are colored brightly to stand out against the petals.

Haft

All six of the iris petals have a distinct shape, remaining narrow close to the crest and widening towards the ends. The narrow section of the petals is called the haft.

Petals

The three petals that grow upwards from the crest are referred to as standards. Three of the petals of an iris grow downward from the crest and are called the falls.

Beards

Beards are present on bearded and aril irises, where the falls are covered in small, hair-like growths. Bearded varieties have full beards, while aril beards are sparser.

References

• Historic Iris Preservation Society: Reading Room
• American Iris Society: Cultural and Classification Information
• North Dakota State University Agricultural Extension: Iris

Resources

• Fine Gardening Plant Guide: Genus Iris