Iris germanica Black Watch - Bearded Iris

The 'Black Watch' Iris germanica is part of the intermediate garden iris group: they are not as tall as the Tall bearded iris, but they still bloom at the same time in spring. This one offers flowers that are not very large, but really very dark, a uniform purple almost black, with matching violet beards. Less sensitive to wind, it is particularly suitable for ornamental gardens in windy areas. Plant it in groups in a border or on a sunny slope.  

The 'Black Watch' Iris is a rhizomatous and deciduous perennial plant. From spring, it forms erect clumps that will disappear in winter. It is one of the many cultivars obtained over centuries, whose controversial origin is discussed around the number of chromosomes of potential ancestors. It is worth noting that Garden iris have European origins. 'Black Watch' is of moderate size, it reaches a height of 60-65cm (24-26in) when flowering and the clump spreads indefinitely over time, with the central rhizomes becoming bare in favour of the outer rhizomes. The foliage consists of long sword-shaped leaves, glaucous green, strongly veined. In April, floral stems appear, which will give flowers blooming from the top towards the lower branches in May. The colour of this plant is, as always with Garden iris, magnified by the texture of the petals and sepals. 'Black Watch' flowers exhale a subtle chocolate fragrance.

To accompany iris, choose plants to associate based on their needs (exposure, soil...), their "respectful" growth towards iris (low plants or light foliage, non-competitive plants), and their decorative complementarity (appearance, flowering time). For example, Gauras will cast little shade on the iris and will keep the deflowered iris bed attractive throughout summer. California Poppies and Love-in-a-Mist will thrive in dry soil, just like iris. Perennial geraniums, salvias, and Libertia also accompany iris very well. Slopes, the base of small trees with light foliage, and terraced edges will be stabilized by a dense planting of old 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, for example, intermediates that are less likely than the tall ones to be literally flattened by wind and rain.

The vegetable garden can be adorned with a few clumps or borders of iris, as it is also the place dedicated to the cultivation of cut flowers.