Divisions of Bearded Iris

Bearded irises are named for the fuzzy like beard found on the falls. There are six divisions of bearded iris. The divisions are as follows:

1. MDB – Miniature Dwarf Bearded – the tiniest of the bearded variety. They are eight inches or less and are the first of the bearded irises to bloom in very early spring.

2. SDB – Standard Dwarf Bearded – range in height from 8 inches to 16 inches and begin to bloom as the MDB's are fading. Planting in clumps offers the best display.

3. IB – Intermediate Bearded – range in height from 16 inches to 27 inches. Bloom season extends over the SDB's and TB's.

4. BB – Border Bearded – range in the same height size as the intermediates, but bloom with the TB's.

5. MTB – Miniature Tall Bearded – same height range as the BB's and IB's. They have thin stalks and dainty flowers. This division is often referred to as “Table Irises” as they are widely used in floral arrangements. Bloom with the TB's.

6. TB – Tall Bearded – the largest of the bearded variety with a height of 27 inches and above. Are the last of the bearded variety to bloom.