Iris Tel Arlequin - Bearded Iris

Iris 'Tel Arlequin' is a remarkable variety of bearded iris, known for its robustness, abundant flowering, and generous and well-formed flowers. The petals are yellow with slightly amber edges, while the sepals have a dark purple plum hue. The beards are a vibrant orange surrounded by bright yellow. The stems of this variety are exceptional, with low branching and an average of 8 buds per stem. It quickly forms beautiful clumps that bloom in spring, providing several weeks of flowers in borders, rock gardens, and flower beds.

Iris germanica is a rhizomatous perennial plant that forms upright and vigorous clumps. It belongs to the family of Iridaceae, which also includes plants such as Crocus, Gladiolus, and Crocosmia. Iris germanica, also known as Bearded Iris or German Iris, is a species probably resulting from the hybridisation of different botanical species. As a member of the Bearded Iris group, recognizable by the fine crest on the sepals, it is one of the most cultivated iris. These plants prefer neutral to alkaline soils and need a sunny exposure to thrive. The rhizomes need to capture the heat of the sun during summer to ensure optimal flowering. Traditionally, a minimum of six hours of sunlight per day is required for their growth.

'Tel Arlequin' was obtained by Richard Cayeux in 2012. This descendant of the excellent variety 'Noctambule' produces stems that reach 80 to 90 cm (32 to 35in) high when in bloom. It has strong floral stems that develop from the rhizomes, with well-built spikes carrying numerous flower buds. The clumps spread rapidly, with no theoretical limits, as the central rhizomes become bare in favour of the outer rhizomes. The glaucous green leaves are long and sword-shaped with strong veins. Floral stems begin to appear in April, and, depending on the climate, they produce flowers 12 to 14 cm (5 to 6in) wide that bloom from the top to the bottom from May until the end of June. The pastel colours of this plant are enhanced by the silky and iridescent texture of the petals and sepals. This variety also has a sweet and delightful fragrance.

Iris easily complement other plants, whether perennials, grasses, or shrubs. To accompany the irises well: select plants based on their specific requirements such as sun exposure and soil types: ensure that their growth does not suffocate the iris rhizomes by opting for low plants with light foliage: consider their appearance and flowering period. Remember that clumps will need to be divided every 3 or 4 years, so give them enough space without competition, preferably in well-drained and not too compact soil. To create attractive flower beds throughout the growing season, associate irises with long-flowering perennials that tolerate dry soils, such as gauras, sages, or perennial geraniums. Columbines and California Poppies (Eschscholzia) bring lightness, while Clematis creates an enticing background. Foxgloves are good for height and don't overlook foliage, such as grasses, silver wormwoods (Artemisia), or euphorbias. Dense planting of vigorous old varieties can stabilise a slope, thus limiting maintenance. Tall irises can be planted at the base of a sunny wall, sheltered from the wind, with shorter and earlier varieties in the foreground. A few clumps of irises can also bring cheerfulness to the vegetable garden, and their beautiful flowering stems can be used for cut flowers.