Iris chrysographes 'Black Velvet' (Black Iris) — Clump forming

Overview

Iris chrysographes 'Black Velvet' is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Iris, part of the Iridaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Iris chrysographes 'Black Velvet' grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, patio and container plants, cut flowers and flower borders and beds.

About

Iris chrysographes 'Black Velvet' is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial in the Iridaceae with a pronounced clumping habit. Leaves are deciduous and the plant favours a sunny, sheltered position. It performs on neutral loam that drains freely and is rated H6 for UK hardiness. Flowering takes place from May to July.

About the genus

Iris takes its name from the Greek goddess of the rainbow, and for once the naming feels entirely earned. I can't think of another genus that covers so much ground — inky purples, burnt apricots, clean whites, blues that seem lit from inside — or so many situations. There are bearded irises that want their rhizomes baked in full sun, Siberian types happy in ordinary border soil, and species that will sit contentedly at the edge of a pond. What they share is the flower: three petals standing up, three falling away, built with a kind of architectural confidence most plants never attempt. Even out of bloom the foliage earns its place — those upright fans of blue-green leaves hold a border together for months. I grow them for the fortnight in May and June when nothing else in the garden can compete, and I've made my peace with that. Some plants are for the long haul. An iris is an event.

Written by Henry

In the garden

Iris chrysographes 'Black Velvet' is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial from the iris family (Iridaceae) and presents as a neat perennial for seasonal display. The foliage dies back after the season and reappears with the next growth cycle, so allow a period of dormancy in the soil. Position the plant in full sun on a well-drained loam with a neutral pH and avoid exposed, windy sites; a sheltered aspect to the south, east or west suits it best. Its UK hardiness is H6, which translates to very hardy under typical British winter conditions, but giving protection from prevailing winds reduces foliar damage. Use Iris chrysographes 'Black Velvet' where a defined seasonal flowering display is wanted: city and courtyard beds, cottage or informal borders, patio containers and for cut flowers. Planting in containers is acceptable provided the compost drains well and pots are placed in a sheltered spot. Expect the principal flower display from May to July, after which the foliage will die back and the crown enter dormancy until the next season.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Iris

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Loam
Soil pH: Neutral
Soil moisture: Well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H6

Plant details

Iris chrysographes 'Black Velvet' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Herbaceous Perennial
Habit: Clump forming
Foliage: Deciduous
Suggested uses: City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Cut flowers, Flower borders and beds