Probably an old Tall Bearded Iris hybrid from the early 1900's. A vigorous and reliable early flowerer, its blue-purple blooms, on branching, slender stems, are more graceful and elegant than modern, flamboyant varieties, and with tighter clumps of narrower leaves it is a better proportioned fit for informal gardens or as a gentler compliment to stark architecture.

Of particular merit is its tolerance of shade, where it is the only variety I have yet to encounter that flowers well and keeps attractive foliage.

For well drained soil. Summer irrigation is completely unnecessary but mulch and the excessive winter dampness it encourages is tolerated poorly.

An exceptional Iris, performing reliably in all but the shadiest of gardens, and having both beautiful flowers and valuable foliage.
The sturdy stems of strongly scented, regal purple, flag iris flowers are are held above compact clumps of sword-like, grey-green leaves.

Under favourable conditions it will repeat bloom several times throughout the year.

As with all Iris feed well and avoid high nitrogen fertilizers.
Prefers a well drained, alkaline soil and thrives in coastal conditions.

Used to great effect in large drifts, mass plantings or as edgings, due to the neat foliage, and is often combined with Iris albicans for a stunning combination.

Extensively used by the landscaping industry, it is available bare rooted in any quantity.
Trade enquiries welcome.