All hobbies and interests have terminology to describe elements of the hobby, and irises are no different. Colours, patterns, growth habit and parts of the plant all have names which are useful to know.

Height is an important factor in choosing any plant. Usually shorter plants get placed at the front of a border, while tall plants get placed at the back. Taller plants could also be placed somewhere in the middle to add some variety. As our climate changes, wetter weather and increased periods of high winds is also becoming a factor in how tall we want our plants to be.