Bearded iris (Iris 'Dusky Challenger') | Bulbs, Corms, Tubers & Rhizomatous Plants | Plants

Bearded iris

Iris 'Dusky Challenger'

Common Name: Bearded iris
Genus: Iris
Cultivar: 'Dusky Challenger'

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Category: Bulbs, Corms, Tubers & Rhizomatous Plants

Height: 1.20 m (120 cm)
Spread: 0.60 m (60 cm)

Hardiness: Hardy
Growth Rate: Average
Flowering Period: May and June
Foliage Type: Semi Evergreen
Foliage Colour: Green
Flower Colour: Blue, Purple
Sun/Shade: Full sun
Soil Type: Sandy/Light or Chalky/Alkaline
Soil Moisture: Dry, well drained or Moist, but well drained

A stately bearded iris with huge ruffled, iridescent purple-blue blooms on strong stems that appear in early summer, each stem carrying up to 13 buds. This is one of the best dark purple-blue irises and looks stunning with other blue and purple flowering plants. Try it dotted around a gravel garden or in groups in a herbaceous border.
Garden care: Bearded irises prefer full sun and neutral-alkaline soil but if you have acidic or peaty soils you can top dress with lime before planting for good results. Plant shallowly with the upper part of the rhizome sitting on the surface of the soil incorporating a low nitrogen fertiliser in the planting hole. After planting remove the upper-most third of the leaves to protect against wind-rock. In exposed areas stake with bamboo canes in early spring. Divide and replant about every three years.