Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Iris chrysographes
Black Iris
- Family
- Iridaceae
- Height
- 1 to 2 feet
- Width
- 1 to 1.5 feet
- Flower color
- Deep purple to black
- Foliage color
- Green
- Bloom time
- Late spring to early summer
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate to high
- Maintenance
- Low; remove spent flower stalks and divide clumps every few years
- Growing zone
- Zones 5 to 8
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees and other pollinators
About this plant
Iris chrysographes, commonly known as the black iris, is a beardless perennial iris admired for its dramatic, velvety flowers. The blooms, which appear in late spring to early summer, range from deep purple to near-black and may feature delicate golden veins on the falls.
Native to China and Myanmar, Iris chrysographes thrives in moist, temperate environments and is often planted near water features or in damp garden areas. Its unique coloration makes it a popular choice for adding contrast to mixed perennial beds, while its graceful, arching leaves provide interest even after the flowering season. This iris is also a favorite for naturalistic and woodland-style gardens.
Works well in
Borders · Cottage Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Rain Gardens · Containers
Companion plants
Lady's mantle · Hellebores · Hardy geraniums · Hostas · Ferns · Astilbes
Design tip
Summer flowers carry the middle of the season, so place it where the bed needs color once spring bulbs fade. Because it is easy about light, use it to carry a planting from a sunny end of the bed into the shadier side.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
