Learn about the diversity and beauty of iris plants, from the elegant bearded irises to the delicate crested irises. See pictures and names of 40 stunning varieties, their colors, sizes, and growing conditions. There are different types of irises (bearded, bulbous, rhizomatous) that can be adapted to gardens, pots and ponds. Optimal care includes good light, drainage, moderate watering, and protection from pests and diseases. Iris flowers are a group of flowering plants that belong to the genus Iris, which includes around 300 species and thousands of cultivars. The name “Iris” comes from the Greek goddess of the rainbow, and the flowers are often associated with the colors of the rainbow, except for red. Iris is one of the most diverse and well-known groups of garden flowers in the world. Still, the sheer variety of iris types means that gardeners have quite a few options to choose from. To learn about the 27 most popular iris flowers, keep reading. This article fully explains the two categories of iris flowers and provides an overview of the most popular subtypes of irises within both categories.