A popular sign of spring in coastal Georgia is underway as the
annual Rivers of Iris bloom returns to the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens at the Historic Bamboo
Farm, located at 2 Canebrake Road, Savannah. Featuring hundreds of vibrant irises flowing through
the landscape, the display is one of the largest public displays of iris in the world and is expected to
continue through early May, with peak color arriving in mid to late April.

The Rivers of Iris includes not only more than 220 Louisiana iris cultivars but also features an array of
tall bearded iris, spuria iris, Japanese iris, and multiple iris species, many of which are part of important
preservation and research efforts.

Visitors can experience a constantly changing palette of color throughout the bloom season while
learning about the Gardens’ ongoing research into which iris varieties perform best in the Lowcountry’s
unique climate. The collection also supports education, sustainability, and public inspiration for
incorporating iris into residential and public landscapes.

“This is one of the most visually striking times of year at the Gardens and never fails to wow and inspire
us all,” said Stan Gray, Iris Collection Curator and Vice President of the Friends of the Coastal
Gardens. “The Rivers of Iris offers a unique opportunity to see a world-class collection in full bloom on
our doorstep, while enjoying the natural beauty of coastal Georgia.”

Gray, who has cultivated iris for more than 60 years, established the current collection after relocating
his extensive iris plantings to Savannah in 2007.

In addition to its visual appeal, the collection serves as a living laboratory. More than 700 tall bearded
iris, 150 spuria iris, and 275 Louisiana iris cultivars have been tested over the years to identify the
strongest performers for the coastal Georgia environment.

Guests are encouraged to visit multiple times to experience the evolving display, as the different iris
cultivars bloom well into May, and to take advantage of photography opportunities, educational
experiences, and a memorable spring outing.

The Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens at the Historic Bamboo Farm is a unit of the University of
Georgia and serves as a center for horticultural education, research, and conservation, offering diverse
garden collections and programs for visitors throughout the year. For hours, admission information, and
updates, visit coastalbg.uga.edu or follow Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens on social media.