Iris chrysographes Black is a showstopping Siberian iris, standing 18 to 20 inches tall with dramatic spring blooms. The nearly black flowers have a velvety finish and fine golden veining on their falls, adding a touch of elegance to garden beds and borders. Lightly fragrant, these unique blooms attract butterflies and hummingbirds, making them a favorite for pollinator gardens. Their striking beauty also shines in spring bouquets and arrangements.
A hardy perennial in Zones 4-8, Iris chrysographes Black is well-suited for naturalizing and thrives in beds, borders, wild gardens, and pond edges (without growing in water). This versatile iris also performs beautifully in containers for patio or deck displays.
Best grown in sunny to partly shaded spots, this iris prefers nutrient-rich, moist, and well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH. It adapts to drier conditions and benefits from mulching in spring to retain moisture and protect the rhizomes from cold. Fertilize annually in spring with a nitrogen-rich mix to encourage vibrant blooms. Remove spent flowers but wait for foliage to naturally die back before trimming.
Plant rhizomes 4 inches apart and 4 inches deep after the last frost. To give them a head start, soak rhizomes in water overnight before planting.
