Bewilderbeast Iris presents a captivating and distinctive addition to any garden. This Tall Bearded Iris cultivar offers an unusual blend of colors and patterns that can transform a garden space. Its striking blooms and relatively straightforward care make it an appealing choice for gardeners seeking a unique floral display.
Characteristics of Bewilderbeast Iris
The Bewilderbeast Iris, a Tall Bearded Iris (Iris germanica), is known for its unique “broken color” pattern. Its flowers display an intriguing mix of purple, mauve, or rose tones streaked with silver-white, often accented by yellow shoulders and golden-brown beards. This cultivar typically reaches 30 to 36 inches (76 to 90 cm) tall, making it a prominent feature in the garden.
These impressive blooms generally appear mid to late spring. The flowers are lightly ruffled and laced, adding textural interest to their complex color scheme. Introduced in 1995, Bewilderbeast has received recognition, including an Award of Merit in 1999 for its garden performance.
The Bewilderbeast Iris is a herbaceous perennial hardy in USDA Zones 3 through 9. Its green, strap-like foliage forms a sturdy base for the flower stalks. This iris attracts beneficial pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Planting and Growing Bewilderbeast Iris
Successful establishment of Bewilderbeast Iris begins with selecting a site that receives ample sunlight. These irises perform best with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, which promotes robust growth and abundant flowering. While they can tolerate some partial shade, too little light may result in reduced bloom production.
Well-draining soil is important to prevent rhizome rot. A slightly acidic to neutral pH range (6.1 to 7.5) is ideal. For heavy clay soil, incorporate organic matter or use raised beds to improve drainage and air circulation.
Planting is typically done in late summer or early fall, from July through September, allowing rhizomes time to establish roots before cold weather. When planting, position the rhizome so its top half is exposed or barely covered by soil. In regions with extremely cold winters or hot summers, covering the rhizome with about an inch of soil can offer additional protection.
Space rhizomes 12 to 24 inches apart for air circulation and future growth. After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil. Consistent moisture helps during establishment, but mature irises are drought-tolerant, needing irrigation mainly during prolonged dry spells.
Ongoing Care for Bewilderbeast Iris
Once established, maintaining Bewilderbeast Iris involves a few routine practices. After blooms fade, deadhead spent flower stalks by cutting them back to the base. This prevents the plant from expending energy on seed production, redirecting it to strengthen the rhizome and encourage future blooms.
Overcrowded iris clumps can diminish flowering and vigor. Divide clumps every three to five years, about six weeks after blooming in late summer or early fall. Lift the clump, discard old central rhizomes, and replant healthy, younger outer sections.
Before replanting, trim rhizome leaves back to 5 to 6 inches to reduce moisture loss. Replant rhizomes with their tops exposed or just at the soil surface. This open placement allows for proper air circulation and sun exposure, important for rhizome health.
Bewilderbeast Iris can be susceptible to iris borers and rhizome rot, especially in poorly drained conditions. Inspect foliage for borer damage and remove affected leaves or rhizomes. For rhizome rot, cut away diseased portions to healthy tissue and treat the cut area with a dilute bleach solution.