Hello Gardeners, I’m Amanda McNulty with Clemson Extension and Making It Grow . The most commonly grown iris is the bearded iris, sometimes called the German iris as the scientific name is Iris germanica . Some people throw in the adjective tall, too, as these can be up to 48 inches in height. In the warmer winters we are experiencing, the foliage lasts and lasts and the huge fans of strong, light green leaves can make a dramatic statement in the garden even after the flowers are long gone.