In horticultural trade and nursery slang, this refers specifically to the large group of Iris germanica hybrids. The name comes from the caterpillar-like fuzzy appendage on the falls (lower petals) which guides pollinators. Growers categorize them by height, such as tall beardeds or dwarf beardeds, and value them for their drought tolerance and massive spring blooms.
Heard on the job
We need to divide the tall beardeds this fall before the rhizomes get too crowded and stop blooming.
Also heard as
- bearded iris
Do not mix it up with
- Bearded iris: Bearded is simply the common shorthand used by growers to refer to the bearded iris.