My first Iris reticulata "Harmony" has opened. A couple others are aboveground; the rest seem to be biding their time. With the warm temperatures we are having (highs around 80 F/26 C), I have worried the flowers would not last very long; but this bloom has opened slowly, deliberately, and is a thing of beauty.
I selected a couple of very blue irises last fall, having been inspired by some of Jane's (at Hoe Hoe Grow). What could be better in the hot, dry desert than the cool blue of an iris? I'm not disappointed in the result so far; it's wonderful.
Iris reticulata, one of the summer-dry species, seemed like a candidate for the dry garden. With no significant freezing weather last winter, however, it may not prove permanent here. I hope it is, as the tiny flower is spectacular.
Here is a photographic journal of the opening of a single iris bloom...
February 8
February 9
February 10
απιστευτα ομορφα!!!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteαγγελικη.
They are indeed, Angela - like something heavenly!!
DeleteOne of my favourites. I grow Harmony in a pot with some Ophiopogon grass and they make a stunning partnership. Hope this comes back for you. I don't know the science of it all but would it be possible to lift the bulbs and chill them at an appropriate time.
ReplyDeleteLifting and chilling may be a good route to take with them, Angie...! I'll watch them awhile and see how they do; I noticed another popping out of the ground this morning :) Your combination with Ophiopogon must make a wonderfully striking effect - would love to see a picture...!
DeleteI've never tried any of the small Iris but next year I think maybe my dry garden needs 'Harmony' too!
ReplyDeleteIt's just gorgeous, Kris - my main concern is lack of winter chill... But as Angie points out, there's always a way around that difficulty!
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