Tall Bearded Iris 'Starring' – Near-Black, Garden Designer's Dream, Iris Germanica

A garden designer's dream, Tall Bearded Iris 'Starring' (Iris germanica) stops everyone in their tracks. Its near-black blooms are a rare and striking presence in the late spring border — brooding, dramatic, and utterly unforgettable. Whether used as a bold accent or massed for maximum impact, 'Starring' commands attention. Extremely drought tolerant and hardy from Zone 3 to Zone 10 with no cold period required.

Plant Details

• Color: Near-black
• Type: Tall Bearded Iris (Iris germanica)
• Height: 24" foliage; up to 36" with flowers
• Spread: 24"
• Bloom Time: Mid – late spring
• USDA Zones: 3–10
• Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Drought Tolerant: Yes
• No Cold Period Required
• USA Grown

Planting Instructions

• Plant in a full sun, well-drained location.
• Do not plant too deep — the rhizome should be at or just at the soil surface; roots face downward.
• Space approximately 18" apart for mass plantings.
• Does best in average to evenly moist, well-draining soil. Will not tolerate standing water.

Care Tips

• Medium growth rate; can live approximately 10 years under ideal conditions.
• May benefit from staking in exposed or very fertile sites.
• Fertilize in early spring and late summer.
• Divide clumps every 3–4 years (August) to maintain vigor.