Iris Tabac Blond - Tall Bearded Iris

Iris 'Tabac Blond' is a variety of tall bearded iris that stands out for its warm and bright colours in shades of coppery yellow and light brown. Its flowers are not huge, but nicely curved and well-proportioned compared to the stout flower stalk. 'Tabac Blond' blooms in spring, between the beginning and middle of the tall bearded iris season. It will thrive in the sun in any well-drained soil, even dry in summer.

Iris 'Tabac Blond' is a deciduous rhizomatous perennial plant that belongs to the Iridaceae family like all German iris. It is one of the many cultivars obtained for centuries, whose controversial origin is debated around the number of chromosomes of potential ancestors. It should be noted that Garden Irises have European origins. 'Tabac Blond' is a fairly low variety, reaching 80 cm (32in) high when flowering, with a strong floral stem bearing many flower buds. The clump will spread quickly, with no theoretical limit over time, as the central rhizomes become bare in favour of the outer rhizomes. The foliage consists of long sword-shaped, glaucous green, highly veined leaves. Flower stems appear in April and bloom in May, earlier or later depending on the climate, from the top down. Each flower is composed of 3 upright light brown petals, 3 semi-horizontal coppery yellow sepals, and 3 hairy orange-yellow beards. The warm colour of this plant is enhanced by the silky and iridescent texture of the petals and sepals. This variety has a slight, sweet fragrance.

Obtained by Cayeux, 2006.

To accompany irises, choose plants based on their needs (exposure, soil...), growth (low plants or light foliage), appearance and flowering time. For example, Gauras will cast little shade on irises and keep the flower bed attractive all summer. California Poppies (Eschscholzia) will be content with dry and poor soil like irises. Perennial geraniums, salvias, and Libertia also go well with irises. Slopes can be stabilised by a dense planting of vigorous old varieties that require little care. The vegetable garden can accommodate a few clumps of irises for cut flowers.