Name: Iris x Louisiana 'Orange Drop' (Orange Drop Louisiana Iris)

Average Landscape Size: 2–3 ft tall × 1–2 ft wide; clumping habit with sword-like foliage

Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade; best bloom production in full sun

Water Needs: Low to moderate once established; more water during active growth and bloom period

Deer Resistance: High

Cold Hardiness: USDA Zones 7–10; evergreen foliage in Willis winters

Fertilization & Pruning: Balanced fertilizer in early spring; remove spent flower stalks; divide clumps every 3–4 years

Detailed Description: Get ready for the most incredible orange show every spring! Orange Drop Iris delivers those absolutely stunning vibrant orange blooms that stop traffic in late spring. Most folks maintain these beauties at 2–3 feet with those gorgeous sword-like leaves providing year-round structure to the garden. What makes this iris perfect for Willis gardens is its incredible drought tolerance once established – it actually prefers our drier conditions! The foliage stays evergreen through our mild winters, giving you structure all year long. These clumps multiply naturally, so you're literally getting more plants every few years when you divide them. This is the plant that gives you that pop of spring color that makes neighbors ask, "What is that gorgeous orange flower?"

Created: September 2025