Iris 'Cartouche' is a cultivar from the Iridaceae family, classified among the bearded border irises. It was developed by Richard Cayeux in 2009 and introduced in 2010. This cultivar results from the cross-breeding between the seedling from ('Chevalier de Malte' × 'Conjuration') and 'Fabuleux'. It is one of many cultivars developed over centuries, with debated origins surrounding the chromosome count of potential ancestors. What remains certain is that Garden Irises have European roots. 'Cartouche' stands out for its exquisite flowers with immaculate white petals and sepals, the latter delicately edged with a dark blue border about 2 mm wide. The yellow beards, ending in white tips, are sometimes extended by a delicate white spur, enhancing the floral design. The form is impeccable, with finely ruffled and tightly packed edges. The plant is compact and reaches a height of about 60 cm in open ground. Its growth is rapid and vigorous, forming dense clumps thanks to its fleshy rhizomes that spread horizontally. In pots, dimensions may be slightly reduced, but the plant retains its elegant appearance. The foliage consists of sword-shaped, blue-green, deciduous leaves. The root system of fleshy rhizomes ensures both propagation and nutrient storage. Flowering occurs from mid to late spring, typically in May.
In a sunny border, the satin-white 'Cartouche' iris acts like a punctuation of light in spring's first warmth. It pairs beautifully with the grey foliage of artemisias, the airy inflorescences of baby's breath, or the soft tufts of Stachys byzantina, playing with textures and gentle hues. To enhance harmony or create subtle contrasts, it can be paired with other irises like 'Sea Fire' with its pastel tones, or 'Cutie' to extend its brilliance in the flower bed. In pots, it becomes a delicate, ornamental piece, worthy of a Mediterranean patio or a French-style flowering balcony.
