Iris on Parade

My garden is at its best in the spring. The season begins with a burst of yellow and white from the many clumps of daffodils that increase in size each year, then transitions to a multi-colored celebration of tulips. As the tulips finish their performance, iris takes the stage. Normally this happens on or about Mother’s Day. The cooler than normal weather delayed the iris’ appearance this year.

Every year that I have lived in this house, the lavender iris that came with the house has bloomed first.


This year, the honor of the opening act was taken over by an iris that I obtained at a Master Gardener plant swap last fall. I had only the vaguest idea of what the blossoms would look like.


This iris is very vigorous, sending up multiple flower stalks from a single rhizome.

Not to be outdone, the Batik iris joined the ensemble.


The pink version, purchased for its name (Baboon’s Bottom) rather than its looks, continues to act the Diva and refuse to bloom. I moved her to a more favorable location last fall, but she has contemptuously rejected her new quarters.

The chilly weather which delayed the bearded iris has given way to warmer temperatures encouraging the Japanese iris to begin their chorus.




Normally they wait until their larger cousins have left the stage.

Two new iris are gracing the garden this year. Both are Dykes Medal winners and part of a collection of iris I purchased a few years ago.

The first to bloom was Beverly Sills, described as pink, but arriving clothed in more peachy hues.


I don’t particularly care for the color but it is perfect for the pastel palette of the Entry Garden.

Making its debut yesterday, an iris called Bride’s Halo (oh, the irony!)


Supposed to be edged in gold, she prefers the traditional bridal white. Or perhaps she is an imposter.

You will note in your program that the once scorned yellow iris was featured in the previews yesterday.

Coming Soon: the roses are already in rehearsal for their annual production.