# Why the Iris Bulbs Have Small Leaves but Won't Bloom
Bulbous irises, short-lived alpine perennials, grow across a wide area of the United States. They bloom in delicate shades of violet, blue, yellow and cream. Failure to bloom may result from one or more of several causes.
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Planting
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These small plants are native to areas with well-drained, rocky soils that need plenty of sunshine and water while they bloom. Bulbs planted in heavy soil or planted too deeply may not flower at all and have stunted leaves.
Immaturity
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Bulbous irises reproduce rapidly, but most bulbs only flower for two to three years, and bulbs take two or more years to reach maturity. Immature bulbs do not flower. The leaves grow larger each year until the plant has developed enough tissue in the bulb and leaves to support flowering.
Blue Mold
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Blue mold resulting from late lifting, early planting or warm storage conditions encourages the development of this penicillin species mold. Affected plants have stunted leaves, fail to flower, fade and die precipitously.
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Bulbs
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