Califlora Earl of Essex Bearded Iris

This variety is a repeat bloomer, meaning it will flower in the spring and then produce a second flush of blooms in late summer or early fall. It provides color for a much longer window than standard, once-blooming iris varieties.

You should space these bulbs 8 to 12 inches apart. This ensures they have enough room to spread as they mature and allows for proper airflow, which helps keep the plants healthy.

The Earl of Essex is quite versatile and hardy, thriving in zones 3 through 10. This wide range covers most of the United States, making it a reliable choice for a variety of climates.

For the best performance, plant it in a spot that receives full sun to light shade. While it can tolerate partial shade, you will get the most robust reblooming if it gets plenty of direct sunlight.

Yes, this iris is naturally resistant to both deer and rabbits. While no plant is completely immune if wildlife is desperate, these pests typically avoid the foliage and flowers of this variety.

This is a low-maintenance perennial. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and requires very little care beyond basic garden maintenance, such as clearing away dead foliage at the end of the season.