The Iris Collection at 19 Birch Lane primarily features tall bearded irises (Iris germanica), including both classic heirloom favorites and modern hybrid cultivars. The collection includes award-winning varieties, reblooming selections, and unique color combinations chosen for their beauty, reliability, and performance in Mid Coast Maine gardens.

Yes. Bearded irises are exceptionally hardy and perform very well throughout much of Maine, including USDA Zone 6. When planted in full sun with well-drained soil, they provide decades of reliable blooms and are among the most durable flowering perennials for Maine gardens.

At 19 Birch Lane, most bearded irises begin blooming in late May and continue through June, depending on seasonal weather conditions. Peak bloom typically occurs in early to mid-June when the collection reaches its most spectacular display of color and form.

Several cultivars within the collection are known for their reblooming ability, meaning they may flower a second time later in the growing season under favorable conditions. Current reblooming varieties include:

• Immortality

• Victoria Falls

• Invitation

• Concertina

These reblooming irises help extend the season of interest well beyond the traditional spring bloom period.

How many iris varieties are in the collectio

The Iris Collection at 19 Birch Lane currently includes more than a dozen named cultivars and continues to grow each season. New additions are carefully selected for exceptional flower quality, garden performance, unique coloration, and suitability for coastal Maine gardens.

Bearded irises are among the most iconic and beloved perennials in the garden. Their extraordinary flower forms, wide range of colors, ease of cultivation, and long lifespan make them ideal additions to both formal and informal landscapes. At 19 Birch Lane, they play an important role in creating a vibrant late-spring display within our evolving botanical gardens.

ItemFew perennials offer the diversity found within the bearded iris family. Flowers range from soft pastels to rich jewel tones and can feature ruffled petals, dramatic color contrasts, and intricate patterns. Their striking architectural foliage also provides structure and interest in the garden long after flowering has ended. description

Many of the iris cultivars featured in the collection are excellent choices for home gardens throughout Maine and New England. Bearded irises thrive in full sun, prefer well-drained soil, and require relatively little maintenance once established.

Bearded irises perform best when planted in:

• Full sun (6+ hours daily)

• Well-drained soil

• Areas with good air circulation

To maintain healthy plants and strong flowering, rhizomes should typically be divided every 3 to 5 years. Avoid heavy mulching over rhizomes, as excessive moisture can lead to rot.

Yes. Many of the irises featured throughout the collection are included in the 19 Birch Lane Plant Finder, where visitors can learn more about individual cultivars, bloom times, growing requirements, and garden uses.

👉 Explore the Plant Finder to discover plants featured throughout the botanical gardens at 19 Birch Lane.

Absolutely. The Iris Collection is a living collection that continues to grow as new cultivars are added and evaluated. As 19 Birch Lane evolves into a botanical garden destination in Mid Coast Maine, expanding and preserving exceptional iris varieties remains an important part of our long-term horticultural vision.