The Black is Black bearded iris stands out as one of the darkest, ripest black tall bearded irises on the market Introduced by Schreiner’s Iris Gardens in 2010, this iris has quickly become a classic thanks to its velvety midnight-black petals and lively ebony beards For those looking to add a touch of gothic drama to their garden palette, the Black is Black iris delivers visual impact.
Origins of the Black is Black Iris
The Black is Black iris was hybridized by Tom Schreiner of Schreiner’s Iris Gardens in Salem, Oregon. The company has specialized in iris breeding since 1925, introducing many award-winning varieties over the decades.
According to Schreiner’s website, the goal with Black is Black was to achieve the deepest true black color possible in an iris bloom. Through careful hybridization, the resulting flowers showcase a rich saturated black shade free of undertones.
The onyx flower color is set off by equally dark tangerine black beards, creating a bold two-tone effect. The beards are nicely branched and add textural interest.
Growth Habits and Bloom Characteristics
The Black is Black iris is classified as a tall bearded iris, with stalks reaching approximately 37 inches in height. Each well-branched stalk produces 9-12 buds in a season, resulting in an impressive floral display.
The blooms showcase velvety petals with expert ruffling, creating luxurious layers of inky color. The petals have a pleasing rounded shape. Flowers reach about 4-5 inches in diameter.
Blooming occurs in mid-spring, adding a dose of drama to the landscape. Flower color holds up well in strong sunlight. The blooms are non-fragrant.
Accolades
The striking blooms of Black is Black have garnered numerous awards over the years:
- Honorable Mention in 2012
- Award of Merit from American Iris Society in 2014
- Wister Medal from the American Iris Society in 2017
The Wister Award represents one of the highest honors for exceptional tall bearded irises. It is fitting recognition for this groundbreaking black flower.
Growing Black is Black Iris
Like most bearded irises, Black is Black prefers full sun and well-drained soil enriched with compost or organic material. Avoid soggy soils.
Plant the rhizomes shallowly, with the tops just barely covered by soil. Space plants 18-24 inches apart to allow for good air circulation.
Established plants are quite drought tolerant. Provide regular watering the first season after planting and then taper off. Fertilize annually using balanced flower fertilizer.
Prune spent blooms and trim back foliage after it dies back in late summer. Divide congested clumps every 3-4 years. Black is Black can be planted in zones 4-9.
Design Uses in the Landscape
A garden accent iris like Black is Black works beautifully:
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In perennial or mixed borders, where the dark flowers make a statement
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Edging a patio or walkway
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In mass plantings for maximum visual impact
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In containers on decks, patios or porches
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As cut flowers for dramatic floral arrangements
Alternate Black Iris Varieties
If the Black is Black iris is unavailable, here are a few other dark-hued options to consider:
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Solid Black – Very dark purple that appears black. Intense orange beards.
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Black Panther – Deep purple-black with tangerine beards.
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Superstition – Deep velvety purple with smoldering beards.
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Obsidian – Dark inky purple with tangerine beards. Intense ruffles.
While not quite as black as Black is Black, these irises offer similarly striking blooms in gothic shades that stand out in spring.
The rich, saturated near-black petals of the Black is Black iris offer gardeners a uniquely dark flower sure to draw attention. For those seeking drama and mystique, look no further than this captivating black beauty.
Tall bearded Iris ” Midnight Oil “, one of the darkest, almost overall black iris varieties
FAQ
What is the darkest bearded iris?
What does it mean when the iris is black?
How rare are black iris flowers?
How do you take care of a black bearded iris?
Does a tall bearded iris have purple foliage?
I emailed Schreiners and they confirmed that this iris has purple based foliage where the rhizome and leaves meet. The spathes also have purple, as you can see in multiple photos. Reply to this comment Plant database entry for Tall Bearded Iris (Iris ‘Black Is Black’) with 23 images, one comment, and 32 data details.
What are the colors of a tall bearded iris?
Tall bearded iris come in various colors such as lemon buff, blue violet, bright yellow orange with red infusion, champagne pink, and dark purple black with beards of the same color. Other examples include a large daylily with lavender pink, heavily ruffled gold edges, and tall bearded iris with ruffled, dark purple black self.
What is a Black Iris?
The Black Iris is a rare variety that was discovered in China in 1911. It holds the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit for its durability and reliability. This plant is called The Black Iris (Iris chrysographes). It is a rare variety that is suitable for growing beside ponds and in boggy soils, wet clay included. Plant The Black Iris in humus rich, moist, well drained soil and keep it moist over summer.
Is bearded iris hardy?
Bearded iris (Iris germanica) is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 10, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac. However, any kind of iris may have problems blooming if it isn’t given proper conditions or care. Tips: An iris that won’t bloom may be planted in too much shade, be either too wet or too dry, or planted too deeply.