'Before the Storm', one of the darkest Tall Bearded Iris we know of, has won prizes worldwide since it was introduced in 1989 (the American Iris Society honored it with the Dykes Medal in 1996). Its moderately sized flowers are smoothly tailored with extremely flaring falls. It has a slight fragrance and is extremely hardy.
The Dykes Medal is the Nobel prize of the Iris world, given annually to just one Tall Bearded Iris. Plants so recognized are famous for generations, but most important, they are superior garden plants.
Iris are among the best-known and best-loved garden plants. Say the word, Iris, and visions of brilliant June flowers come to mind. This huge genus contains upwards of 200 species, which range from timid and inconspicuous wildlings to the splendid and extravagant Tall Bearded Iris we offer in fall only. The chosen habitats of Iris range from standing water to formal borders, and there is scarcely a shade or combination of colors that can't be found. Plenty of sun and well-drained soil with a pH near neutral are the primary requirements for their success.
