Description

Iris reticulata Alida delivers one of the earliest bursts of colour in the garden, with sky-blue flowers touched by white and subtle yellow throats. Compact and refined, this dwarf iris reaches just 10–15 cm tall, making it an ideal candidate for rock gardens, alpine beds, gravel gardens, or containers by doors and paths. Alida is especially effective when underplanted with late-flowering snowdrops like Galanthus elwesii or combined with early crocus (Crocus tommasinianus), providing layered seasonal interest.

Native to Turkey and Iran, Iris reticulata types thrive in free-draining soil and sunny aspects which is ideal for Irish sites with raised beds or scree gardens. It goes fully dormant in summer, making it compatible with xeric schemes. While not a major pollinator draw, its early bloom time is valuable for any early-foraging insects emerging from hibernation.

For best effect, plant in clumps or drifts and leave undisturbed to naturalise. Mix with Chionodoxa luciliae, Scilla bifolia, or Iris ret. J.S. Dijt for a refined small-scale bulb tapestry.