Bearded Iris - Califlora Earl of Essex
Best vibrant blooms for garden enthusiasts seeking reliable elegance.
The Reblooming Bearded Iris Earl of Essex offers regal beauty with billowy white blooms accented by purple speckles and veining. Its upright falls add a jaunty touch. This robust rebloomer can produce up to three flushes of flowers per season in warmer climates. Grown on a multi-generational family farm in California, these plants are conditioned by harsh sun and low water, resulting in hardy, drought-tolerant specimens. It reaches 32-34 inches tall and is deer- and rabbit-resistant.
$12.48
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
848
/ 2582
#848 in Flowers
Price vs Category Average
-69%
Below average
Height
3234
/ - inches
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking a show-stopping bloom for visual appeal
- Busy individuals desiring beautiful flowers without constant attention
- Eco-conscious gardeners wanting to support local wildlife
Who should skip it
- Homeowners with shaded yards or limited sunny planting spots
- Enthusiasts expecting continuous floral displays throughout the season
- Novice gardeners preferring plants that never need dividing
Performance breakdown
Reblooming consistency
Reliable multiple flushes provide an extended season of vibrant color.
Drought tolerance
Hardened by California sun, these plants thrive with minimal water.
Pest resistance
Natural deterrents effectively keep deer and rabbits at a distance.
Visual impact
Striking purple-veined white blooms create a sophisticated, regal garden focal point.
Climate adaptability
Broad hardiness range ensures success across diverse growing zones.
Plant hardiness
Robust root stock withstands harsh conditions with minimal maintenance required.
Key Specs
Height
32-34 inches
Hardiness Zones
3-10
Reblooming
Reliable late summer and fall rebloomer in zones 5-10
Flower Color
White with purple veins
Deer- and rabbit-resistant
Light Requirement
Full sun to light shade
Drought-tolerant
Features
- Reblooming Iris for extended floral display
- Hardy and drought-tolerant plants from California farm
- Deer and rabbit resistant
- Striking white blooms with purple accents
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Bearded Iris Califlora Earl of Essex for its exceptional beauty and robust growth. Many highlight the striking, vibrant colors and unique ruffled petals that create a dramatic focal point in any garden. Reviewers frequently note how well these plants establish themselves and produce abundant, healthy blooms year after year, making them a truly rewarding addition. The ease of cultivation combined with their stunning visual impact makes this variety a firm favorite among gardeners seeking reliable elegance.
Know before you buy
Unlike traditional irises that bloom only once in the spring, the Earl of Essex is bred to produce multiple flushes of flowers. In zones 5-10, you can expect a reliable second display of blooms in late summer and fall.
Yes. Because these plants are grown in California under harsh sun and low-water conditions, they are exceptionally hardy and drought-tolerant once established.
Yes, these irises are naturally deer- and rabbit-resistant. Their taste and texture are generally unappealing to local wildlife, making them a safer choice for gardens prone to animal browsing.
For the best results, plant them in a location that receives full sun to light shade. Adequate sunlight is essential for the plant to store enough energy to support its reblooming cycle.
You can expect this variety to reach a mature height of 32 to 34 inches. Their upright stature makes them an excellent choice for the middle or back of a perennial border.
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$12