Iris germanica Man from Rio

Iris germanica 'Man from Rio' is a beautiful variety of Bearded iris, described as "red". Actual red is the only colour that is still missing from the rich palette offered among the flowers of bearded irises. This one offers large silky and velvety flowers, in two shades of dark red, rich with dark wine-coloured reflections, warmed by yellow at the heart. A shimmering colour that will work wonders alongside pastel, pink, white or blue blooms.

The Iris 'Man from Rio' is a deciduous rhizomatous perennial that forms upright clumps. Its foliage disappears in autumn and reappears in spring. This plant belongs to the family of Iridaceae. It is one of many cultivars obtained over the centuries, with debate about their disputed origins revolving around the number of chromosomes of potential ancestors. It should be noted that Bearded Irises have European origins.

'Man from Rio' is a tall variety, reaching 89 cm (35in) in height when in flower. Each rhizome produces branching stems with several flower buds. The clump will spread very quickly and indefinitely over time, as the central rhizomes become bare in favour of the outer ones. The foliage consists of long sword-shaped leaves, glaucous green in colour, strongly veined. In April floral stems appear, which will produce flowers in May, in the middle of the tall iris season, blooming from the top down towards the lower branches. The theatrical colour of this plant is, as always with Bearded irises, enhanced by the silky and velvety texture of the petals and sepals.

Obtained by Schreiner in 1983

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. California Poppies (Eschscholzia), like irises, will be satisfied with dry and poor soil. Perennial 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.

The vegetable garden can be adorned with a few clumps or borders of irises, as the classic place for growing cut flowers.