Iris germanica Jus de Pomme

The 'Jus de Pomme' Iris germanica is a variety classified as intermediate, of medium height, whose spring flowering occurs slightly before that of Tall Irises. This one produces vividly coloured flowers in orange-yellow, further enhanced by intense orange beards. Shorter, less sensitive to wind and rain, it is perfect for ornamental borders and slopes, even in windy situations.

The 'Jus de Pomme' Iris is a rhizomatous and deciduous perennial plant, with an upright clumping habit 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. 'Jus de Pomme' is of modest size, reaching 60 cm (24in) in height when in bloom. The clump will spread indefinitely over time, with the central rhizomes becoming bare in favour of the outer rhizomes. It has an upright, elegant habit, forming a dense clump. The deciduous foliage consists of long sword-shaped leaves, glaucous green, strongly veined. It emerges from the ground in spring and disappears in winter. In April floral stems appear, giving rise to flowers that open from the top down towards the lower branches. Each flower, of modest size, consists of 3 upright petals in yellow-orange, 3 sepals in light orange, and 3 mandarin-colored beards. As always with Bearded Irises, the colour of this plant is enhanced by the texture of the petals and sepals.

Obtained by Cayeux.

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.

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