Iris 'Benton Olive'
bearded iris
A clump-forming perennial weaving its spell with upright, green ribbons of leaves and slender stems graced with fragrant blooms. Each flower showcases creamy yellow-green standards adorned with a central band of purple, echoed in the falls with darker veining and a subtle lilac splash.
These enchanting blooms, reminiscent of the palette of the artist, Sir Cedric Morris who bred the Benton series, hold a fragrant promise, and while they may occasionally grace you with an autumn encore, their summer spectacle alone is enough to captivate the senses.
These enchanting blooms, reminiscent of the palette of the artist, Sir Cedric Morris who bred the Benton series, hold a fragrant promise, and while they may occasionally grace you with an autumn encore, their summer spectacle alone is enough to captivate the senses.
How to care for Iris Benton Olive:
Plant out as soon as possible after they arrive, 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 uppermost 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.
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.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.9m
Eventual spread:
0.5m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
-
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
-
Humans/Pets: Harmful if eaten
