Iris ‘Wabash’ (Bearded Iris)

Regarded as one of the most beautiful irises ever introduced, multiple award-winner Iris ‘Wabash’ is a breathtaking beauty. Sweet fragrance, tailored elegance, good plant health, and generous blooms made this Tall Bearded Iris the winner of the most prestigious award of the American Iris Society, the Dykes Medal in 1940. Fresh-toned as any orchid this Amoena iris displays snowy white standards, contrasting strikingly with the ultramarine-blue falls that are delicately adorned with a white rim on their edges. The spectacular blooms of this heirloom iris rise with majesty up to 35 inches high (88 cm) atop a lovely sword-shaped foliage which will continue to add interest to the landscape after flowering is over. A midseason bloomer, ‘Wabash’ is such a standout that you can see it from a city block away! This explains why it has been a favorite since its introduction in 1936! 

• Easy to grow, it is deer and rabbit resistant, and quite drought tolerant once established.
• Won many major awards, including the Honorable Mention (1937) and Award of Merit (1938) from the American Iris Society as well as the prestigious Dykes Medal (1940)
• Profuse bloomer, it will bring its glorious and glamorous blooms in late spring or early summer over a long blooming period. Please note that bloom times depend very much on the weather.
• Performs best in full sun in humus-rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Tolerates light shade, but best flowering and disease resistance occur in full sun. Good soil drainage is essential to prevent rot issues.
• Grows from creeping rhizomes which store food produced by the sword-shaped, semi-evergreen leaves and form large clumps over time
• A welcomed addition to herbaceous borders, sunny courtyards, or urban gardens where the sword-like foliage and vibrant color will combine harmoniously with the stones and angular hardscaping. Roses also provide a lovely backdrop for this tall variety.
• The best time to plant bearded irises is July through September. Container-grown iris can be planted in the spring.
• All parts may cause discomfort if ingested. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.

Bearded irises are classified by height and flower size into 6 groups. Since these groups bloom at slightly different times, combining specimens from different groups will extend your color display for a couple of weeks.