Iris Full Impact - Bearded iris

'Iris 'Full Impact' is a variety of tall bearded iris, with a remarkable depth of colour and moderate-sized flowers. The wavy petals and sepals are dark blue-violet and have a beautiful density. The base is marked with a very white and contrasting area around white beards. This medium-sized iris produces its flowers in harmony with the foliage, between the beginning and the end of the season, with a long-lasting flowering.

The 'Full Impact' Iris is a rhizomatous and deciduous perennial plant, with an upright habit. It belongs to the Iridaceae family. It is one of the many cultivars obtained over centuries, whose controversial origin is debated around the number of chromosomes of potential ancestors. It should be noted that Bearded Irises have European origins.

'Full Impact' is an intermediate-sized variety, reaching a height of 70 cm when in bloom, with a sturdy stem supported by rhizomes, bearing several flower buds. The clump will spread rapidly, with no theoretical limit over time, as the central rhizomes become bare in favour of the outer rhizomes. The foliage consists of long, glaucous, and heavily veined sword-shaped leaves. In April, floral stems appear, which will give flowers in May, opening from the top down. The powerful and deep colour of this plant is, as always with Bearded Irises, enhanced by the silky texture of the petals and sepals.

Obtained by Schreiner in 2001. Award: Honorable Mention in 2003

To accompany irises, choose plants that have similar soil and exposure requirements. Opt for low-growing species or those with light foliage, which do not obstruct the light needed by the irises and do not compete with them, while offering staggered or non-staggered flowering. For example, Gaura maintains visual appeal throughout the summer and hides the foliage of the Iris after flowering. California Poppies and love-in-a-mist, which tolerate dry soil, go well with the needs of irises. Perennial geraniums, salvias, and Libertias are also good companions that extend the flowering period. At the base of a wall, the relative shelter from the wind allows for the use of tall irises. If you are concerned about climatic uncertainties, choose intermediate iris varieties, which have better resistance to wind and rain. Slopes, the base of small trees with light foliage, and terraced edges will be stabilised by a dense planting of old varieties that can remain in place and require little care.

The vegetable garden can be enhanced with a few clumps or borders of irises for cut flowers.