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A stunning bearded iris with dusky purple-black flowers from April to May and grey-green sword-like leaves. It looks fabulous planted in drifts in a well-drained sunny border as a complement to other blue and purple flowers or to provide a dramatic accent among paler flowers. Plant towards the middle of the border to fully appreciate the colour.

• Garden care: 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.