The iris is an exotic bloom with graceful petals that unfold in jewel tones of blue, amethyst, yellow and white. Because of the intense colors and the elegant shape of its flowers and foliage, irises are in considerable demand as cut flowers.

“We handle iris year-round, but spring is by far the heaviest time of the year,” John Busch, cut flower buyer at Koehler & Dramm Wholesale Florist in Minneapolis, told The Produce News. “Iris is up there in the top 10 in product asked for by florists. Everybody this time of year is going to ask for iris. But it gets heat stressed in the summer and tends to shrivel up, so it doesn’t have the vase life as it does in the winter and spring months.”

Because of their distinctive shapes, iris are frequently used as form flowers in floral designs and their height also makes them ideal for use as line flowers. They add an exotic touch to bouquets, centerpieces and corsages.

“Iris is a beautiful flower throughout the year, but it seems to be exceptionally popular in the spring,” Ashley Dimmit, floral manager at Hy-Vee in New Hope, MN, told The Produce News. “We currently have it included in a beautiful spring mixed bouquet with hyacinth and tulips. We also carry single stems for purchase and design with iris. We enjoy using iris in our high-style arrangements, utilizing contrasting colors and its unique shape to elevate designs. I feel customers are drawn to iris because of the richness of the color. I believe customers also like to watch the iris as it blooms — a definite reminder this time of year that spring is here.”

J Schwanke from uBloom.com told The Produce News that he loves iris for many reasons. “I enjoy blue flowers; there is something surreal about a blue flower. And the majestic form of the iris bloom with a contrasting yellow throat is not unlike the regal splendor of an orchid,” said Schwanke. “It’s one of the most incredible flowers to watch transform from bud to blossom — it’s so fast, it nearly happens right before your eyes. I love to arrange iris loose in a vase or stylized in flower foam; the sweeping nature of the stem allows you to place the iris at opposing angles, which mimics the way they grow in nature. And although blue or purple irises are my favorite, I do love a white or yellow one on occasion. And bearded iris — cut from the garden — well, that’s just its own little slice of heaven.”