Iris Tuxedo - Bearded Iris

Iris 'Tuxedo' is a classic and elegant variety. Its medium-sized flowers bloom on tall stems, with a slight frill, in a magnificent very dark purple, rich in midnight blue and black highlights. A very uniform colour, enhanced by the velvety texture of the petals. The majestic silhouette of the 'Tuxedo' iris reappears every spring in the garden, and enthusiasts will always find it with the same pleasure.

Iris 'Tuxedo' is a perennial rhizomatous plant with an upright clumping habit. Its deciduous growth disappears in winter and regrows in spring. It belongs to the Iridaceae family. It is one of the many cultivars obtained over the centuries, with a controversial origin discussed in terms of the number of chromosomes of potential ancestors. It should be noted that Garden Irises have European origins. 'Tuxedo' is a tall variety, reaching a height of between 90 and 94 cm (35 and 37in) when flowering, with one stem per rhizome, bearing multiple flower buds. The clump spreads rapidly, without theoretical limits over time, as the central rhizomes become bare in favour of the outer rhizomes. The foliage consists of long sword-shaped, glaucous green and strongly veined leaves. Floral stems appear in April and produce flowers in May, opening from the top to the lower branches. The colour of the petals and sepals harmonizes with the very dark blue-violet beards. This variety has given rise to 34 other cultivars of garden irises.

Obtained by Schreiner (U.S.A) in 1964. Award: Honorable Mention (H.M) in 1969 (U.S.A).

To accompany irises, choose companion plants based on their needs (exposure, soil...), their growth (low plants or light foliage), and their decorative traits (appearance, flowering time). For example, Gauras will provide little shade to the irises and keep the deflowered iris bed attractive throughout the summer. Eschscholzia will tolerate dry soil in summer, just like irises. Geraniums, salvias, and Libertia also go very well with irises. Slopes and terraced edges can be stabilized by a dense planting of old diploid varieties that require little care. If the goal is more decorative and access for maintenance is possible, modern varieties can be chosen, such as intermediates that are less likely to be laid flat on the ground by wind and rain.

The vegetable garden can accommodate a few clumps of irises grown for bouquets.