Black is Black bearded iris
Iris x germanica 'Black is Black'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
10+ years
Native To
Europe and Western Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Tall, vigorous bearded iris with deep black-purple flowers. Known for its unique and striking dark color, making it a standout in the garden.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck bulbs 4-6 inches deep in well-draining soil in early fall.
- Mist cuttings or divide clumps every 3-4 years for optimal growth.
- Plant in full sun for best blooms, ensuring soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
- Water regularly during active growth, especially in dry periods.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring for healthy foliage and flowers.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent bulb rot; adding gravel improves soil aeration.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Tuck bulbs into well-drained soil 🌱
- Water during dry spells
- Apply fertilizer in spring
- Divide clumps every few years
- Mulch to conserve moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent rot ❌
- Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendment
- Avoid disturbing bulbs during flowering
- Don’t forget to remove dead foliage
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Black is Black bearded iris questions
What zones can Black is Black bearded iris grow in?
Black is Black bearded iris is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Black is Black bearded iris deer resistant?
Yes — Black is Black bearded iris is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Black is Black bearded iris bloom?
Black is Black bearded iris typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Black is Black bearded iris need full sun?
Black is Black bearded iris does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Black is Black bearded iris drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Black is Black bearded iris handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Iris to compare
German Iris Bearded Iris
Iris germanica 'Mix'
Celebration Song Iris
Iris tenuissima 'Celebration Song'
Dutch Iris Mix
Iris hollandica 'Mix'
Siberian Iris 'Paprikash'
Iris x hybrida 'Paprikash'
Poem of Ecstasy German Iris
Iris x germanica 'Poem Of Ecstasy'
Baboon Bottom Bearded Iris
Iris germanica 'Baboon Bottom Bearded'
Keep exploring
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Grow Black is Black bearded iris with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
