I have a few iris growing in my zone 5 garden ranging from a few inches to a few feet tall. ‘Cherry Garden’ is a gorgeous standard dwarf bearded iris at the front of my front yard island bed. Since I’ve planted them a few years ago they’ve multiplied into a stunning drift of red-violet color that echoes the colors in my tulips. When the iris is done blooming the spiked foliage adds contrast to the rest of my perennial bed.

This award-winning iris grows 8 to 12 inches tall so plant it where you’ll be able to enjoy it, such as along a path. ‘Cherry Garden’ has red-violet standards and falls with purple-blue beards and blooms early to mid-spring. It prefers full sun but will grow in dappled shade, and likes well-drained soil and can even tolerate a bit of clay. I have a huge problem with deer and rabbits eating everything in my garden, but neither of them nibbles on this little iris. ‘Cherry Garden’ is cold-hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9. It’s a good idea to divide them every few years, plus it’s a great way to add even more to your garden or share with friends and family.

Add this iris to your border and you’ll be rewarded with a stunning display every spring!