Early spring in Colorado is often a contrast of seasons. Blooming is reserved for those that can brave the unpredictable elements. And it’s a favorite time of year to be there when the vibrant Dwarf Iris first emerge.
I’ve written about them in previous posts – calling them “Spring’s Little Soldiers” and “Springs Endurance Athletes”. Their resiliency continues to amaze me. While I’m still bundled up, they bloom boldly and unfazed. Perhaps a testament to Nature having a mighty will – even if you only stand 4 inches tall!
As they tend to appear around the first week in March, they face the spring snow storms that follow. And I’m more than happy to greet them with camera and garden pad in tow. Sometimes sharing the spotlight with a few hardy, early rising Grape Hyacinths, they are all a welcome sight to this flower photographer!
They Faced Multiple Snow Storms this March
Known as our snowiest month, this March has produced some significant snow storms this year. The moisture has been great for the xeric gardens. But the early rising flowers such as these miniature iris take quite a beating. As you can see in the photo, the little, purple, pointed buds are undaunted as the point upright through the snow. Then there is the solitary Dwarf Iris bloom that appears to ignore the snow completely.
Walking around the gardens after a spring storm, these little flowers – with their shades of purples are quite a contrast against the white snow.
Emerging Through the Dirt, Rocks and Mulch
Some emerge right through the dirt and rocks with just a prominent flower. Others are surrounded by their grass-like leaves. They emerge from the freshly mulched xeriscape gardens. Others growing right through the rocks. Some have prickly neighbors growing right next to a spiky barrel cactus with its long spines. Then a new cluster in a wine color I had never seen before was growing right through a large prickly pear cactus. That was a challenging photo to capture – even if I only had my phone to do so.
Dwarf Iris – Flying Solo or in Clusters
Whether they are flying solo or in clusters, they are perky little fellas with personality. Even though it’s necessary to get into some awkward positions to get up close to photograph them, it’s so worth it. Their purple uniforms with splashes of yellow can’t help but make you smile.
I especially love this particular photo. This cluster of Dwarf Iris appear to be coaxing a fallen comrade to get back up after the snow melted from the latest storm. Brave and bold is an understatement for these little flowers and I will never tire of photographing them 🙂
If you’re a fan of these brave spring flowers, check out these other posts with accompanying photos:
● Dwarf Iris Hardy Little Spring Flowers
● Dwarf Iris – Spring’s Little Soldiers