Iris germanica Belvi Queen - Bearded Iris

The 'Belvi Queen' German Iris is also called the Remontant Grand Garden Iris, because it has the ability to produce two flowerings in a year: the first takes place in spring, and the second in October, if the plant has rich soil and does not lack water at the end of summer. Overall two-tone, its flower evokes the pictorial technique of pointillism and showcases a palette of cinnamon, brown, and yellow tones on a white background. This touch of white enhances the uniqueness of its colour. This variety of impressive stature emerges gracefully from flower beds. Consider planting it in a sheltered spot, such as against a wall, to prevent its long flower stalks from bending.

'Belvi Queen' Iris is a rhizomatous perennial plant that develops in spring with elegantly upright tufts, its foliage disappearing in winter. It belongs to the family of Iridaceae. It is one of the many cultivars obtained over centuries, with a controversial origin discussed around the number of chromosomes in potential ancestors. It is worth noting that Garden Irises have European origins. These plants prefer calcareous soils and require at least half a day of full sun to bloom well.

'Belvi Queen' can reach 1.10m (4ft) in height when flowering, making it a tall variety that may require staking. The clump will spread indefinitely over time, with the central rhizomes thinning out in favour of the outer ones. The foliage consists of long and wide sword-shaped leaves, slightly glaucous green, with parallel veins running through them. This variety blooms for the first time at the beginning of the Grand Iris season, in May. In April, flower stems appear that will produce flowers opening from the top to the lower branches. If it does not lack water or nutrients, it will produce more flowers in early autumn. The colour of this plant is, as always with Garden Irises, enhanced by the texture of the petals and sepals.

Obtained by Carol Jensen in 1975

To accompany irises, choose plants to associate with them based on their requirements (exposure, soil...) and their "respectful" growth towards irises (low-growing or light-foliaged plants, non-competitive plants), as well as their decorative complementarity (appearance, flowering time). For example, Gauras provide little shade to irises and maintain an attractive appearance in the iris bed throughout summer. California Poppies and Love-in-a-Mist tolerate dry soil in summer, just like irises. Perennial geraniums, salvias, and Libertias also complement irises very well. Slopes, bases of small trees with light foliage, and terraced edges can be stabilized by dense plantings of old varieties that can remain in place and require little care. If the goal is more decorative and access for care is possible, you can choose more modern varieties, such as intermediates that are less likely than tall varieties to be literally knocked down by wind and rain.

A few clumps or borders of irises can also be added to the vegetable garden, as it is also a place dedicated to growing cut flowers.