The petite Iris cristata has blooms that range from violet/lavender to nearly white. Because of the short 3-6 in stem on this low-growing plant with a relatively large flower, it appears almost stemless. Although it has a short blooming period, it readily spreads once established – forming colonies of small sword-shaped leaves. It can benefit from being divided every 3 years or so. Because it is a small plant, it should be planted about every 6″.
Dwarf Crested Iris grows best in full to partial shade but can also tolerate full sun and drier soils associated with many sunny locations.