Iris germanica Arctic Age - Bearded Iris

Everyone knows Iris germanica, which has become world famous thanks to the paintings of Van Gogh and Monet. It owes its popularity to its unique design.

Its wide, sword-shaped leaves contrast with crumpled, multicoloured flowers perched high up. The flowers have the particularity of forming three large upright petals and three silky, trailing sepals, called "beards". The flowering lasts a few weeks in May/June. This Iris has large fleshy rhizomes creeping on the ground. It likes light, heat, and light, well-drained soils. It is not afraid of cold or summer drought, its enemy is moisture, especially in heavy soils. Superb in a sunny border, it is also highly appreciated for bouquet arrangements.

The 'Arctic Age' variety of Garden Iris measures 95cm (37in) in height. It has white petals with a lemon yellow beard.

Very resistant, it should be exposed to full sun, in rather dry and well-drained soil.

Place the 'Arctic Age' Iris in a border or flower bed, in the company of yarrows, Alliums, Stipas, or roses. It is preferable to scatter them in groups of 3 or alone instead of creating homogeneous iris beds.