OK, I have identified my first “must-have” plant for 2012.
While reading the most recent issue of Fine Gardening magazine, I came across one of their plant recommendations for Iris ‘Gerald Darby’.
First off, you had me at “Iris” as this is one of the few plants that absolutely thrives in my wet clay conditions.
Secondly, I was completely reeled in by the color of the spring foliage:
I love that color and already have so many ideas as to what I can pair it with (thinking red foliage).
Thirdly, check out the phenomenal blooms:
Done and done.
To get an incredible write-up on this Iris along with stunning photos, check out this link at Nancy Ondra’s Hayefield website – http://hayefield.com/2011/01/19/one-plant-three-seasons-iris-gerald-darby/. She will sell you on it more than anyone ever could. Hot damn!
For now, I’m about to click on the “Add to cart” link on the Heronswood site.
John
Oh yeah…this is, hands-down, my fave Iris right now. I actually frist heard about it on Nan Ondra’s blog! I found some this spring at a Plant Sale and snatched it up. It actually grew better than I expected. For some reason, it always seems like transplanted Iris sort of sulk for that first year…but ‘Gerald’ grew big and lush…and the blooms were superb. Can’t wait to see it bulk up over the next few years so I can divide it and have more around the garden. Get one…you won’t regret it!
I LOVE the color!
I read Nan’s post and it convinced me to give it a try, maybe next to my ninebarks.
Eileen
Well, hey – “wet, clay soil.” That would be us here in Northern California – and I love irises, so this is a great recommendation.
Happy New Year! – Marsha
Beautiful
Well now, that’s an Iris that’s “drop dead gorgeous”!!!!!
Love that flower and the purple foliage, it is beautiful.
Wow, that has fantastic foliage! Can’t wait to see your pictures of it once you get it in your garden.
Thanks for the comments on my blog today, John. I scrolled through several of your posts and I am looking forward to reading more. Happy New Year!
I have to agree, among the sea of green, the purple blades would look awesome!
what color!
If I thought I could grow it, it would definitely be on my list of must-chase plants. Now, I’m just all green-eyed. 😉
You’re right the colors are simply stunning. Matching blooms and foliage! Sweet.
what are the green pepper like fruits i am seeing on my iris versicolor gerald darby ARE THE EDIBLE