Iris 'Telstar' Dutch Iris Bulbs

Iris 'Telstar' is a renowned Dutch iris celebrated for its captivating late-spring blooms. Its deep blue to royal purple flowers, adorned with a splash of yellow on the falls, rise above a tidy clump of narrow, linear leaves on strong stems reaching 18 to 24 inches tall. These exquisite blooms make long-lasting cut flowers for elegant monofloral bouquets or mixed arrangements, adding a touch of sophistication to any setting.

An Iris x hollandica species, 'Telstar' is a hardy perennial (Zones 5-9) and an excellent choice for naturalizing in garden beds and borders. For colder regions, it can be grown as an annual, or the bulbs can be lifted and stored over winter. Planting in groups of 15 bulbs per square foot creates a dazzling display, while container-grown 'Telstar' can brighten patios or be forced for blooms year-round.

'Telstar' thrives in sunny spots with rich, porous soil that drains freely but retains enough moisture to nourish roots. Amend heavy clay or sandy soils with organic material like peat moss to ensure ideal conditions. Water deeply and regularly during active growth, and mulch with a 2-inch layer of organic material to retain moisture, keep roots cool, and protect bulbs in colder climates. Fertilize twice annually, deadhead promptly, and allow foliage to die back naturally before cutting. Resistant to deer and rabbits, 'Telstar' is both beautiful and resilient.

For vibrant late-spring blooms, plant 'Telstar' iris bulbs in the fall for warmer Zones or after the last frost in cooler climates. Space bulbs 4 to 6 inches apart and plant them 4 to 6 inches deep.