Product Field NotesCompanion Plants
Sunfisher Siberian Iris: Early Deep Yellow Before the Lavender
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Sunfisher Siberian iris is one of the deepest yellow Siberian irises, with light yellow upright standards over richer golden yellow falls marked by faint darker veining near the base. It is also one of the earliest to open, starting in late May.
Many flowers open together on slender stems above narrow, grassy leaves, so a clump looks like a small bouquet that planted itself.
Sunfisher at a glance
| Trait | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Botanical name | Iris sibirica 'Sunfisher' |
| Flowers | Light yellow standards over deep yellow falls |
| Fragrance | Slight and sweet |
| Size | About 28 inches tall, 18 to 24 inches wide |
| Bloom | Starts late May, peaks early June |
| Hardiness | USDA zones 3 to 9 |
| Light | Full sun to part shade |
| Deer | Resistant |
Opening act for the lavender season
In a garden planned around lavender, late May and early June can feel like waiting. Sunfisher fills that gap. Its yellow flowers open just before lavender begins, and by the time the purple spikes color up, the iris is finishing. After bloom, the upright, grassy foliage stays tidy as a green vertical accent.
It does want steadier moisture than lavender, so do not plant it in the dry lavender bed. A neighboring border with richer soil, a rain garden or the edge of a pond is ideal. From across the yard, yellow iris in the moist bed and purple lavender in the dry one tie together nicely, since yellow and purple are complementary colors. Map both beds in the Companion Plant Planner.
Planting and care
- Soil: average to rich, kept well watered, especially in spring and early summer.
- Light: full sun gives the most flowers; part shade is fine.
- Dividing: divide crowded clumps in late summer.
- Cleanup: cut the foliage back in late fall or early spring.
- Winter: very hardy. Established clumps need no winter mulch.
Siberian irises are rarely troubled. Watch for occasional iris leaf spot, and avoid waterlogged soil, which can cause crown or root rot. They see much less iris borer damage than bearded irises.
A walnut-tolerant pick
If you garden near black walnut trees, you know how many plants sulk there. Siberian iris is not bothered by black walnut, which makes Sunfisher a dependable choice for those tricky spots.
Format
Sunfisher is offered as a bare root plant. See the product page for current availability, or the Wholesale Hub for larger bare root orders.
Frequently asked questions
Is it good for cutting?
Yes, it rates good as a cut flower. Cut stems as the first buds open.
Is it safe to have around kids and pets?
Iris rhizomes and leaves are irritating and can cause stomach upset if eaten, so it is not a plant to snack on.
How is it different from bearded iris?
Siberian irises have slimmer, grassy leaves, like more moisture and are far less troubled by borers.
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