Iris germanica High Stakes - Bearded Iris

Iris germanica 'High Stakes' is a prolific variety of tall bearded iris, producing 7 to 8 flower buds per stem in mid-season. They open into large flowers with lively undulations, of a royal purple, perfectly uniform up to the beards, and of exceptional intensity. A dark and luminous iris, with a beautiful presence in borders and rock gardens.

The 'High Stakes' iris is a perennial rhizomatous and deciduous plant, with an upright habit. It belongs to the Iridaceae family. It is one of many cultivars obtained over the centuries, with debate about their controversial origins revolving around the number of chromosomes of potential ancestors. It should be noted that Bearded Irises have European origins. 'High Stakes' is a tall variety, reaching a height of 90 cm (35in) in bloom, on sturdy stems borne by rhizomes, carrying several floral buds. The clump will spread very quickly and indefinitely, with the central rhizomes becoming bare in favour of the outer ones. The foliage consists of long sword-shaped leaves, glaucous green and highly veined. In April floral stems appear, which will bear flowers that bloom progressively from the top to the lower branches in May. The powerful and deep colour of this plant is, as always with Bearded Irises, magnified by the texture of the petals and sepals, which are very silky. Note that the discreet beards are of the same tone.

Obtained by Schreiner, 1999.

To accompany the irises, choose plants based on their needs (sunlight, soil), their "respectful" growth habit vis-a-vis irises (low-growing plants or light foliage), and how they complement each other visually (appearance, flowering period). For example, Gauras will cast little shade and will keep the bed attractive throughout summer once the irises have flowered. Eschscholzia, like irises, will be satisfied with dry and poor soil. Geraniums, salvias, and Libertia also complement irises very well. Slopes and terraced edges can be stabilised by dense planting of old diploid varieties that can remain in place and require little care. If the goal is more decorative and access for care is possible one can choose more modern varieties, such as intermediates that are less likely than tall varieties to be knocked over by wind and rain.

Plant tall irises at the base of a wall, sheltered from the wind. They can be planted in the background of shorter and earlier varieties.

To line a pathway: the whole range can be used, from dwarf early varieties to tall irises flowering in May, including intermediates (in size and earliness) and border irises, medium-sized but flowering with the tall ones. Tall irises with heavy flowers, exposed to the wind, may need staking to prevent them from falling.

Edge of a flowerbed: border irises as well as dwarf irises.

Mixed border: the whole range of sizes can be used, at the front or back, depending on the size of neighbouring plants.

Iris bed/iris garden: A judicious choice allows for two and a half months of flowers in spring. The choice of 'perpetual' irises offers some additional flowers in late summer or autumn.

The vegetable garden can accommodate a few clumps of irises, as it is also the classic place for growing cut flowers.