Iris

Frilly six-petaled iris is beloved for its range of color, length of bloom and ease of cultivation. It flowers in late spring on erect, branched stems that lift showy blossoms above narrow, swordlike leaves. Available in all the colors of the rainbow, iris looks superb en masse, solo against shrubbery or clustered within a mixed border.

Iris is one of the easiest perennials to grow, hardy to Zone 3. Although most varieties prefer full sun, there are some suitable for nearly every situation.

Even better than June bloomers are "remontant" irises that do it again in autumn. Fall flowering is less concentrated than spring's but it lasts over a longer period. Some cultivars even survive light frosts. A few reliable rebloomers are 'Immortality', a white; 'Feed Back', a dark purple; 'Earl of Essex', also purple; and 'I Do', with white flowers. In Zone 5 or warmer, try 'Jennifer Rebecca', a mauve-pink beauty that blooms constantly for about four months.

Insider's secret Never trim iris foliage into scallops or fans; the leaves carry on photosynthesis to nourish next year's bloom. It is O.K. to cut off brown tips and to cut the flower stalk down to the rhizome (the thickened stems that grow horizontally). Another caution: Don't bury the rhizomes; they should sit on top of the soil, where they will get the light and air they need to dry out after a rain.