Is there Really a Black Iris?
 BEFORE THE STORM IRIS photo courtesy Iriswarehouse.com Is there Really a Black Iris?
The argument will continue among iris enthusiasts as to whether there is a true "black" iris, or in fact whether the standard purple just gets darker and darker with specialty breeding.
Above, please find two examples (and another below) of iris varieties that are deep, dark versions and "so called" black iris.
Before the Storm Iris
The first iris photo above, "Before the Storm," is an iris by hybridizer Innerst and was registered with the American Iris Society (AIS) in 1989. A tall bearded variety (approx. 37" tall), the fragrant bloomer is wonderful and a later blooming season variety. The iris was an award winner, winning an Honorable Mention from AIS in 1991, AM in 1993, Wister Medal in 1995 and the coveted Dykes Medal in 1998.
You can see that an argument can be made that this is indeed a black, dark iris.
Back in Black Iris
When you see "Back in Black" iris compared with Before the Storm iris you can visibly see that there are indeed shades of black in named irises.
Back in Black is a wonderful variety that almost has red tones in it. Hybridized by Schreiner's and registered in 1986, it is also a tall bearded iris that is approximately 38" tall. It's dark black velvety color was also awarded an Honorable Mention from AIS! Blooms on Back in Black tend to also be mid to late season blooms.
Back in Black Iris Photo courtesy of Iriswarehouse.com
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Back in 1977, when Superstition was registered, you can imagine the talk that this dark iris created! It's deepest purple self with a blue-black beard was the talk of the iris world! No proper iris garden is still complete without a black iris or the complimentary iris Superstition (black) and Immortality (white)...both reblooming iris in many parts of the US! (have multiple growing seasons). Superstition is a tall bearded iris (approx. 36' tall) Hybridized by Schreiner's. Awards: HM in 1978 and AM in 1981.
SUPERSTITION IRIS, PHOTO COURTESY OF Iriswarehouse.com
Garden displays
So, feel free to experiment with the black iris in your garden! We have seen some extraordinary contemporary displays in black and white.
I have even seen an outstanding bold display of black and pink that included art structures in the same colors!
As always, HAPPY GARDENING! http://www.iriswarehouse.com
Judy, Iriswarehouse.com
