Iris 'Black Gamecock' (25) plants
Common name: Louisiana Iris.
Zones 3 to 9.
Full sun to part shade.
Plants reach 24 to 36 inches tall and 24 inches wide;
Growth rate: Rapid.
This native cultivar has huge 4 to 6 inch blossoms that open flat to display velvety deep purple flowers with the narrowest gold signal on each petal. Bloom time varies by climate, but typically ranges from late spring into midsummer. Louisiana Irises typically bloom after both Siberian and Tall Bearded Irises have finished blooming for the season.
American Iris Society Award of Merit 1986
American Iris Society Honorable Mention 1982
American Iris Society Mary Swords DeBallion Medal (highest honor for a Louisiana Iris) 1989
Louisiana Irises grow best in wet to boggy soil or in shallow water up to four inches deep. They can also be grown in the garden with consistent moisture. However, they tend to bloom heaviest when grown in water. The soil should be acidic, as the plants will be pale in color and overall weaker when grown in soil with a higher pH.
Louisiana Irises bloom best in full sun but will also grow in partial shade. Late spring is the ideal time to transplant the rhizomes, though late summer or early fall is also acceptable. Do not transplant them in the heat of summer or in late fall. Plants will multiply quickly if sited properly.
These plants are heavy feeders, especially in zones where the growing season is relatively short. Provide a dose of liquid fertilizer on a regular schedule for best results. Provide pine straw or other mulch in the fall, but be sure to pull away the mulch early in the spring to prevent rot.
Attributes: bog plant, border plant, cut flower, and mass plantings. Attracts hummingbirds. Deer and rabbit resistant. |
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