Blue violet iris

Focal flower · Iridaceae

Iris

Iris × hollandica

Also known as Dutch iris

Named for the Greek messenger goddess and traditionally tied to wisdom, hope, and faith.

Colour: Blue violet

Traditionally, faith and hope.

Use in a bouquet All flowers

Toxic to cats and dogs. Read the pet-safety note

Peak season
Mar–May
Vase life
3–6 days
Birth month
February
Colours
4

What the iris means

The iris takes its name from Iris, the Greek goddess of the rainbow who carried messages between the gods and mortals, and in the Victorian language of flowers it stood for a message. The stylized iris is widely thought to be the origin of the fleur-de-lis, the emblem of French kings. Purple irises are often linked to wisdom and royalty, and blue to faith and hope. The iris is also a traditional flower for a 25th wedding anniversary. As always, readings differ across cultures.

Flower meanings come mostly from Victorian floriography, and they vary between books, eras, and cultures.

Often sent for

  • Anniversary
  • Birthday
  • Just because
  • Thank you

By colour

  • Blue violet Traditionally, faith and hope.
  • Purple Often read as wisdom and royalty.
  • White Associated with purity and respect.
  • Yellow Often given for warmth and friendship.

Keeping it fresh

Available year-round from greenhouses; Dutch iris is most plentiful in spring.

  1. 1 Buy irises in bud with a pencil-tip of color showing; tight green buds may not open.
  2. 2 Keep them cool; irises open quickly in warm rooms and last only a few days.
  3. 3 Recut stems and remove any leaves below the waterline.
  4. 4 Change the water every day or two.

Pet safety

  • cats Toxic
  • dogs Toxic
  • horses Toxic

ASPCA lists iris as toxic (pentacyclic terpenoids): drooling, vomiting, lethargy, and diarrhea. The highest concentration is in the rhizomes.

Source: ASPCA toxic and non-toxic plants. If a pet eats any plant, call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.

Birth flower · February

February's most traditional flower is the violet, with iris sometimes given in its place.

Choose “Birthday” in the studio and pick February — the iris leads the bouquet.

Did you know

Orris root, the dried rhizome of certain irises, has been used for centuries as a fixative in perfume and potpourri.

Pairs well with

Make your own iris bouquet

Pick a vase, add a card, and share the link — no delivery van, no wilting.

Open Flower Studio