Iris germanica Hissy Fit

The 'Hissy Fit' German Iris is a variety of intermediate bearded iris, of medium height, whose spring flowering is slightly earlier than that of tall irises. It produces up to 7 flowers per stem, each displaying warm tones of honey and reddish-brown. Its growth is vigorous, and it quickly forms beautiful clumps. Ideal in beds, borders, and on slopes, this iris is also better suited to windy conditions.

The 'Hissy Fit' Iris is a rhizomatous and deciduous perennial plant, with upright clumps from spring onwards. It belongs 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. 'Hissy Fit' is of moderate size, reaching a height of 60cm (24in) when in bloom and the clump will spread indefinitely over time, with the central rhizomes thinning out in favour of the outer rhizomes. It has an upright, elegant habit, forming dense clumps. The deciduous foliage consists of long, sword-shaped leaves, glaucous green and strongly veined. It emerges from the ground in spring and disappears in winter. In April floral stems appear and give flowers that bloom from the top down to the lower branches. Each modest-sized flower has 3 upright petals in a yellow-brown colour, 3 reddish-brown sepals bordered with honey and adorned with a large almost black brown spot, and 3 bronze-coloured beards. The colouring of this plant is, as always with Bearded Irises, enhanced by the texture of the petals and sepals. Note that Hissy Fit flowers emit a subtle sweet fragrance.

Obtained by Sterling Innerst, 1987

To complement 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.

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