Iris takes its name from the Greek word for a rainbow, referring to the wide variety of flower colours found among the many species. They prefer to be planted in a fertile rather moist, but well drained garden soil and in a sunny protected position.
A welcome sight in the depths of winter, Iris ‘Unguicularis’ generously provides beautiful flowers from November to March. With delicate petals like butterfly wings, the lavender-blue blooms flutter above lance-shaped, evergreen foliage. Brightening bare borders and containers, this variety delivers a dash of colour when it is needed most. The blooms radiate a soft, sweet scent – capitalise on this fragrance by positioning near frequented walkways. ‘Unguicularis’ is native to a dry climate and thrives in light, free-draining soil with a south-facing aspect. Snip the pretty, perfumed blooms as fresh cut flowers to relish some floral joy indoors during the winter months.
Like the lavender mist which floats above the ground on a spring morning, Iris ‘Foggy Dew’ brings a veil of hazy, indistinct colour which shimmers in the dawn light. This serene variety is a bicolour blend of milky white petals, stained by violet streaking and edged with lilac-blue. The upright standards are heavily frilled and crimped, with loosely waved, flaring falls. At the centre of each bloom is a soft gold ‘beard’, luring bees and butterflies to gather the plentiful pollen and feast on honeyed nectar. This variety has a sweet fragrance, filling the air with soothing scent.
Iris ‘Rajah’ is an unapologetic display of lavish colour, with blooms that will stop you in your tracks. Like a Sultan’s sumptuous turban cut from raw silk and velvet, this majestic variety conjures all the luxurious opulence of a Rajah’s palace. Rich, oxblood falls are shot with bronze veining and speckled with cinnamon flecks, culminating in a standard resembling a golden crown. The splendid appearance of this Bearded Iris is further enhanced by an accompanying heady perfume of spiced vanilla. Plant in bold drifts amongst your herbaceous borders where ‘Rajah’ will steal the show from late spring to early summer.
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