Iris 'Ruffled Velvet'

Iris 'Ruffled Velvet': A Tapestry of Textural Opulence

Iris 'Ruffled Velvet' emerges in the garden as a symbol of textural opulence, weaving a tapestry of deep, luxurious colors and intricate form that captivates the senses. This standout cultivar is celebrated for its sumptuous, velvety blooms that exhibit an extraordinary depth of color, ranging from the richest purples to the most profound blues, mimicking the appearance of royal velvet fabric. Each petal is exquisitely ruffled, adding a dimensional beauty that enhances the plant's overall allure. Planted in strategic focal points, along elegant borders, or within sophisticated mixed perennial beds, 'Ruffled Velvet' introduces a sense of regal elegance and dramatic flair, making it a prized selection for gardeners seeking to infuse their outdoor spaces with a touch of luxurious beauty.

Product Characteristics:

• Height: 'Ruffled Velvet' proudly stands at a height of 70-85 cm, with its majestic blooms perched atop strong, upright stems that add a regal presence to the garden landscape.
• Spread: This Iris variety elegantly spreads to about 25-35 cm, forming dense clumps that showcase its lush, textured blooms in full glory.
• Flower Colour: The blooms are a mesmerizing deep purple to blue, with each petal displaying a velvety sheen and ruffled edges that invite touch and admiration.
• Flowering Period: It graces the garden with its presence from late spring to early summer, offering a spectacle of color and texture that signifies the peak of the gardening season.
• Sunlight Requirements: 'Ruffled Velvet' thrives in full sun to partial shade, its dramatic colors deepening under the optimal light conditions to reveal their full, luxurious spectrum.
• Soil Requirements: Preferring well-drained, moderately fertile soil, 'Ruffled Velvet' achieves its best growth and bloom production when planted in an accommodating garden setting.

Uses and Benefits: Beyond its breathtaking beauty, 'Ruffled Velvet' serves as an attraction for local pollinators, enriching the garden's biodiversity. Its striking appearance and robust growth habit make it an ideal candidate for creating dramatic garden statements, whether as part of a border, mixed bed, or as a specimen plant in a cottage garden setting, where its opulent blooms can be admired up close.

Companion Plants: Complement 'Ruffled Velvet' with plants that offer contrasting colors or textures, such as the bright yellows of Daylilies, the delicate whites of Shasta Daisies, or the architectural foliage of Ornamental Grasses. These companions help to accentuate the rich colors and luxurious texture of 'Ruffled Velvet', creating a garden scene that is rich in diversity and visual interest.

Care Instructions: Iris 'Ruffled Velvet' is a symbol of garden elegance that requires minimal care to maintain its stately appearance. It enjoys occasional watering during dry periods, benefits from a layer of mulch to maintain soil moisture, and appreciates a balanced fertilizer in early spring. Regular deadheading of spent flowers and division of clumps every few years will keep 'Ruffled Velvet' thriving and blooming spectacularly.

History: 'Ruffled Velvet' is a testament to the artistry and dedication of Iris breeders, who have sought to combine the luxurious texture and deep, captivating colors in a single variety. It stands as a pinnacle of breeding success, capturing the imagination of gardeners and floral enthusiasts with its unique beauty and elegance.

Final Thoughts: Iris 'Ruffled Velvet' is a masterpiece of garden design, offering a tapestry of textural opulence and deep, resonant colors that transform any garden space into a scene of luxurious beauty. Its ruffled, velvety blooms and regal stature make it an essential addition for those seeking to add a touch of drama and elegance to their garden. As a beacon of sophistication and natural artistry, 'Ruffled Velvet' ensures that the garden remains a place of unparalleled beauty and allure, season after season.