Iris sibirica 'Caesar's Brother' is a dramatic Siberian iris prized for its velvety violet blue flowers and slender upright foliage. Extremely cold hardy and reliable, it adds bold vertical interest to moist borders, cottage gardens, and waterside plantings.
Height & Spread: 30 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part sun
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soil rich in organic matter
Watering Needs: Moderate; thrives with consistent moisture, especially during active growth
Deer Resistance: High
Native Status
Not native to North America. This variety is bred from Siberian iris species native to Europe and Asia and is widely cultivated in American gardens for its hardiness and striking color.
Wildlife & Insects
Butterflies
- Attracts Eastern Tiger Swallowtails and Spring Azures that visit the open blooms for nectar in early summer.
Bees
- Native bumblebees and sweat bees are frequent visitors, drawn to the flower’s pollen laden anthers.
Beneficial Insects
- Encourages predatory insects such as hoverflies that contribute to garden pest control and pollination support.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow clumps to mature without crowding and to promote airflow.
Landscape Placement
- Excellent for water garden edges, mixed perennial beds, and naturalized plantings where vibrant vertical color is desired.
Companion Plants
- Astilbe arendsii (Garden Astilbe) - Offers a feathery contrast and thrives in similarly moist, shaded locations.
- Rodgersia aesculifolia (Rodgersia) - Bold, textured foliage and pink flower sprays complement the upright iris form.
- Ligularia 'The Rocket' - Dramatic yellow flower spikes and bold leaves pair well with violet blooms and damp conditions.
- Hosta 'Blue Angel' - Large blue toned leaves echo the iris color and provide a cooling backdrop.
- Carex muskingumensis (Palm Sedge) - Adds graceful texture and movement along water margins or in rain gardens.