Iris sibirica 'Paprikash' is a striking Siberian iris known for its vibrant reddish paprika toned falls and golden signals edged in pale lilac. It blooms in early summer atop slender upright stems above narrow grass like foliage that remains attractive after flowering. This hardy perennial thrives in consistently moist soils making it well suited for rain gardens and the edges of ponds or streams.
Height & Spread: 28 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soil; tolerates clay and wet conditions
Watering Needs: Moderate to high; prefers consistent moisture especially in spring
Deer Resistance: Rarely browsed by deer or rabbits
Native Status
'Paprikash' is a cultivar of Iris sibirica, a species native to parts of northern and central Europe and Asia. While not native to North America, it adapts well to a variety of garden conditions and is often used in naturalistic plantings.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- The intricate flowers are pollinated by bumblebees and other native bees capable of navigating their narrow throats.
Butterflies
- Visited occasionally by swallowtails and other large butterflies drawn to the bright color contrast and accessible nectar.
Beneficial Insects
- Supports predatory wasps and parasitic flies that rest and forage among its dense foliage in mixed plantings.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow for mature clump development and airflow in wet locations.
Landscape Placement:
- Excellent for pond margins, rain gardens, moist borders, and perennial beds needing vertical accents with vivid color.
Companion Plants
- Lobelia cardinalis (Cardinal Flower) - Offers saturated red blooms that echo the intensity of the iris and thrive in the same moist soils.
- Caltha palustris (Marsh Marigold) - Early yellow flowers brighten the spring bed and bloom ahead of the iris.
- Astilbe chinensis 'Vision in Red' - Feathery flower plumes provide a soft contrast to the upright iris blooms while favoring wet soils.
- Filipendula rubra 'Venusta' - Towering pink blooms create a bold foil for the rich paprika tones of 'Paprikash'.
- Acorus gramineus 'Ogon' - Chartreuse foliage adds color and texture contrast in consistently moist locations.