Dietes (African Iris) are ot really iris at all. They are listed at being hardy to 25 degrees by some venders.

I guess you're interested in true iris. Lots of debate over growing in Florida. I think it very much depends upon where in the state you are located. Here is a comment I saved:

..... I have SEEN iris in fl, just spent several weeks there this spring from miami to orlando ...

Unfortunately it doesn't elaborate on what types. Consult your local nursery's best guru and look around your town to see what accepts the climate. I've read tall beardeds are not successful in the southern part. Dwarf beardeds will not be successful. Perhaps Louisianas (beardless) would be the best choice.

iris_gal:

Thank You for your post. Good advice on checking with "best guru" at a local nursery. In the meantime, I am going to study up on the suggested Lousiana beardless. Live also near the Univ.of South Florida. Am going to stop by there botanical garden one day and talk with their curator. Thanks again !!

I'm very curious to hear what you find out. I live in 9B and purchased two of the most beautiful "Iris, Blue" plants at Home Depot a month or so ago. No blooms on them upon purchase, no signs of any blooms now. But the foliage alone was worth the investment; tall thick, upright beautiful green, just stunning in my garden. I'd love to see a bloom someday but just having them survive will be thanks enough. So far they are managing in the intense heat and arid air just fine (we're in a rain vortex here, drought conditions well over 2 months now). They get supplemental irrigation just twice a week and are doing great. I wish I had more information to give you as to what variety they are, but they are thriving right now.