Iris germanica Lune et Soleil

Iris germanica 'Lune et Soleil' is a beacon in the garden when it blooms in spring. Its flowers, which can be seen from afar, combine two shades of yellow with creamy white in an incredibly classy way. Perfectly formed, with just the right amount of undulation, they have a very good texture and the flowerbuds are well staggered on a sturdy, upright stem. Give it plenty of sun, space, and rich soil to bring out its best.

The 'Lune et Soleil' Iris is a deciduous rhizomatous perennial. It forms an upright clump from spring and its foliage disappears in winter. Tall Bearded Irises belong to the Iridaceae family. It is one of many cultivars obtained over the centuries, with debate about their disputed origins revolving around the number of chromosomes of potential ancestors. It should be noted that Bearded Irises have European origins. 'Lune et Soleil' is a rather stout variety that will reach 80 cm (32in) in height when in flower. Each rhizome produces a sturdy flowering stem that bears numerous flower buds. The clump will spread rapidly and indefinitely over time, as the central rhizomes become bare in favour of the outer ones. The foliage consists of long, glaucous green, highly veined sword-shaped leaves. In April the flowering stems appear, which will produce flowers in May, earlier or later depending on the climate, blooming from the top down to the lower branches. Each flower consists of 3 upright petals blending creamy white with pale lemon yellow, 3 almost horizontal sepals of a saturated bright yellow, and 3 small bright yellow beards with pale yellow tips. The sunny colour of this plant is, as always with Bearded Irises, enhanced by the texture of the petals and sepals, which are thick and iridescent.

Obtained by Cayeux, 2012.

To accompany irises, choose plants based on their needs (sunlight, soil), their "respectful" growth habit vis-a-vis irises (low-growing plants or light foliage), and how they complement each other visually (appearance, flowering period). For example, Gauras will cast little shade and will keep the bed attractive throughout summer once the irises have flowered. California Poppies (Eschscholzia), like irises, will be satisfied with dry and poor soil. Perennial geraniums, salvias, and Libertia also complement irises very well. Slopes and terraced edges can be stabilised by dense planting of old diploid varieties that can remain in place and require little care. If the goal is more decorative and access for care is possible one can choose more modern varieties, such as intermediates that are less likely than tall varieties to be knocked over by wind and rain.