Classes of Bearded Irises
Bearded irises are grouped into distinct classes based on their height, bloom time, and flower characteristics. These classifications help gardeners choose varieties that best suit their space, style, and seasonal goals. From petite early bloomers to tall showstoppers, each class brings its own charm to the garden.
Miniature Dwarf Bearded
MDB
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Height: Up to 8 inches
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Bloom Season: Very Early
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The smallest bearded irises. Great for rock gardens and containers. Usually first to bloom.
Miniature Tall Bearded
MTB
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Height: 16-27.5 inches
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Bloom Season: Mid to Late
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Delicate and elegant with smaller blooms. Thin stems; known as "table irises" due to their suitability for small arrangements.
Standard Dwarf Bearded
SDB
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Height: 8-16 inches
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Bloom Season: Early
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Compact and colorful, popular for borders. Often bloom just after MDBs.
Border Bearded
BB
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Height: 16-27.5 inches
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Bloom Season: Late
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Like tall beardeds but shorter and more proportioned. Suitable for windy gardens.
Intermediate Bearded
IB
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Height: 16-27.5 inches
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Bloom Season: Midseason
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Intermediate in size between dwarfs and tall beardeds. Strong stems and larger blooms.
Tall Bearded
TB
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Height: 27.5+ inches
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Bloom Season: Mid to Late
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The most well-known and widely grown class. Large, showy blooms in endless color combinations.
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Reblooming Irises (RE or REB) – Not a size-based class, but a special trait. These irises can bloom again in late summer or fall, offering extended color in the garden.
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Space Age Irises (SA) – A visual variant often found in the Tall Bearded class, Space Age irises are known for their unusual appendages like horns, spoons, or flounces extending from the beard.