Exemplar Horticulture
Image courtesy of Marits hagedagbok
This stunning perennial forms a clump of narrow, grey-green leaves; very deep purple, almost black, yellow-veined flowers rise on tall stems; excellent cut flower; deer resistant; drought tolerant once established.
flowers rise on tall stems; excellent cut flowers
Striking accent and specimen; elegant in containers, mass plantings, cottage and water-wise gardens
Iris chrysographes black form
(Black Iris)
Growing | Requirements |
---|---|
Zone |
3 (-40°F/-40°C) |
Exposure |
Full sun to partial shade |
Form | |
Foliage Height |
18" (46 cm) |
Width |
20" (51 cm) |
Flower Height |
20" (51 cm) |
Flower Colour |
very deep purple, almost black, yellow-veined flowers |
Bloom Time |
June-July |
Watering Needs |
Moderate-Low. Drought tolerant once established |
Soil Preferences |
Tolerates a wide range of soil types |
Plant Care Tips
To get the most out of your Japanese Iris, make sure that you keep the plant well-watered, particularly in spring, while it is setting its blooms. The Canadian Iris Society suggests "wet in spring, moist in summer" for best results during the present season and the next year. Japanese Irises grow best in rich soil that has a lot of organic material and is slightly acidic. Mulch heavily to conserve moisture and keep the soil cooler. Remove old foliage after the first frost. Apply fertilizer once during spring and again after the blooming period is over. Divide every 3-4 years or when the bloom size or plant height decline. You can transplant Japanese Irises anytime between spring and fall as long as you keep the new plants watered.