Iris

Irises are one of the most elegant and historically significant flowers in floristry. Their distinctive three-petalled blooms, with their upright standards and drooping falls, have a sculptural, almost architectural quality that makes them instantly recognisable. Named after the Greek goddess of the rainbow, irises come in a wider range of colours than almost any other flower, from the deepest midnight blue to the palest cream. They are a flower of real character and one of the most rewarding to receive.

What each iris colour means and when to gift them

Purple irises are the most widely recognised variety and carry meanings of wisdom, royalty, and admiration. They are a sophisticated choice for any occasion where you want to express genuine respect and regard for someone.

Blue irises represent faith, hope, and the courage to face what lies ahead. They are a thoughtful choice for someone going through a difficult time or embarking on a new and challenging chapter.

White irises represent purity, innocence, and new beginnings. They are a popular choice for wedding flowers and sympathy arrangements, where their clean, elegant form adds structure without competing with other blooms.

Yellow irises represent passion and positivity. They are a warm, uplifting choice for birthdays and congratulations bouquets, particularly when paired with other warm-toned stems.

The iris is the national flower of France, where it appears as the fleur-de-lis, one of the most recognisable symbols in heraldry. It is also the birth flower for February, making it a particularly meaningful choice for winter birthday bouquets.

How long do irises last

Irises typically last between five and eight days as cut flowers. They are not the longest-lasting stem, but they are among the most beautiful while they last. They often arrive in bud and open fully within one to two days, revealing their full, dramatic form.

One of the most appealing qualities of irises is the speed at which they open. Watching a tightly closed bud unfurl into a full bloom over the course of a day is one of the small joys of receiving them.

How to care for them

Trim the stems at a 45-degree angle on arrival and place them in a clean vase with fresh, cool water. Remove any leaves that would sit below the waterline. Irises prefer cool water and a cool environment. They will open more slowly and last longer in a cool room.

Change the water every two days and re-trim the stems each time. Keep irises away from direct sunlight and heat. As individual blooms fade, remove them carefully. Irises often have multiple buds on a single stem that will continue to open after the first bloom has faded.

Are irises safe for cats and dogs

No. Irises are toxic to both cats and dogs. The rhizomes are the most toxic part, but the leaves and flowers can also cause symptoms including vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, and lethargy. They should be kept well out of reach of pets.

If you need a flower with a similarly elegant, structured appearance that is safe for pets, snapdragons or veronica are good alternatives and are non-toxic to cats and dogs.

When to send irises

Irises are a spring flower and are at their peak in the UK between March and May. They are a natural choice for spring birthday bouquets, particularly for February birthdays where they are the birth flower. They are also a beautiful choice for Mother's Day, Easter flowers, and any spring occasion where you want something with real elegance and character.

Purple and blue irises are a sophisticated choice for anyone who appreciates distinctive, unusual flowers. White irises work beautifully in wedding flowers and sympathy arrangements. Yellow irises add warmth and positivity to birthday and congratulations bouquets.

Irises are the birth flower for February. If you are looking for February birthday flowers that feel genuinely meaningful rather than generic, they are one of the most considered choices available.

Shop arrangements that include irises

Our florist's choice bouquet is designed weekly and features seasonal stems including irises during the spring months. Available with free UK delivery from £34.

Related guides:

Delphinium Guide

All flower guides