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Key characteristics

Classification: Tall Bearded Iris (TB), Plicata
Height: 3 to 3 1/2 feet
Width: 1 1/2 to 2 feet
Flower color: White and greyed blue with deep violet-purple markings
Foliage color: Medium green, upright, sword-shaped foliage
Bloom time: Early midseason to late season
Light: Full sun
Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
Growing zone: USDA zones 4 to 8

Irises

Iris 'Central Intelligence'

Central Intelligence Iris

Iris 'Central Intelligence' is a tall bearded plicata iris with heavily ruffled flowers that bloom from early midseason through late season. Cool white standards are finely washed and dotted with greyed blue, with subtle green-tan yellow along the margins. White falls are patterned with violet-purple veining and dotting that deepens to rich purple at the edges, while golden-yellow beards brighten the centers. Upright, sword-shaped green foliage forms sturdy fans below.

Light

Full sun

Water

Moderate; drought tolerant once established

Bloom time

Early midseason to late season

Find this plant

Works well in

Cottage Gardens
Borders
Cut Flower Gardens
Walkways
Waterwise Gardens

Companion plants

Lilac · Bluebeard · Lupine · Shasta daisy · Allium · Candytuft · Creeping phlox

Design tip

Give 'Central Intelligence' a spot where its intricate flower pattern can be appreciated at close range rather than lost at the back of a large bed. A simple backdrop of green foliage helps define the detailed blooms and keeps the surrounding planting from competing for attention.