Purring Tiger Siberian Iris

Light Needs

Part Shade to Full Sun

(3+ Hours Direct Sun)

Mature Height

2-3 Feet

Mature Spread

1-2 Feet

Growing Zones

3 to 9

Purring Tiger Siberian Iris (Iris sibirica 'Purring Tiger') charms with soft lavender flowers perched atop golden petals etched in purple stripes. In our experience, its compact 18 to 20-inch height suits smaller borders and adds a dainty display in early summer. Each bloom offers a unique color interplay that pleases both cottage gardeners and fans of modern perennial beds. This variety is also popular for cut bouquets, enhancing arrangements with its two-toned elegance.

Purring Tiger's hardy Siberian roots bring vigor and resilience, and the American Iris Society Honorable Mention confirms its merit. Foliage is narrow and upright, creating a grassy texture long after the flowers have faded. Deer and rabbits typically avoid it, while hummingbirds and bees make frequent visits. Use it for mass plantings along a pond or as a focal point in mixed borders where moderate moisture is available.

Purring Tiger Siberian Iris Care

Place plants in full sun or part shade with well-draining soil that stays consistently moist. A slightly acidic pH of around 5.2 to 6.4 suits them well, and a bit of compost helps maintain steady nutrition. Gentle watering throughout the season supports the best blooms, and a balanced fertilizer applied in early spring can stimulate robust foliage and bud formation. Avoid letting roots dry out, especially in hot spells.

Remove spent flower stalks as they finish, but leave foliage until autumn to feed the rhizomes for next year’s growth. If kept in containers, ensure a deep pot and check moisture levels frequently. In colder climates, store containers in a sheltered space to help protect from extreme freezes. Overwinter garden clumps with a light mulch, removing it in early spring to let new shoots emerge easily.

Purring Tiger Siberian Iris Spacing

Space plants 18 to 24 inches apart in rows or groupings for adequate airflow and ample growing room. A container of about 10 to 12 inches wide provides enough space for a single rhizome, and a 16-20 inch pot can hold multiple plants.

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