Iris 'Benton Menace'
bearded iris
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- Standard £5.95
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
- Position: Full sun
- Soil: Moderately fertile, well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: Average
- Flowering period: May and June
- Hardiness:Fully hardy
A product of Sir Cedric Morris's breeding efforts and named after one of his many feline companions, 'Benton Menace' stands out as an alluring rhizomatous herbaceous perennial. Its grey-green strap-like leaves grow upright, surrounding erect stems that boast large, fragrant, and vivid red-violet flowers embellished with golden beards. Preferring hot, sunny, and well-drained conditions, this tall bearded iris showcases its charm in late spring and early summer, adorning gardens with its radiant blooms.
Plant shallowly with the upper part of the rhizome sitting on the surface of the soil, incorporating a low nitrogen fertiliser in the planting hole. After planting remove the upper-most third of the leaves to protect against wind-rock. In exposed areas stake with bamboo canes in early spring. Remove the stems after flowering from the base as this will concentrate the plant's energy into producing new rhizomes. Divide and replant about every three years.
- Humans/Pets: Harmful if eaten