Iris 'Dance Ballerina Dance'

Iris 'Dance Ballerina Dance': Ruffled Elegance in Motion

Graceful as a twirl on stage, Iris 'Dance Ballerina Dance' features soft, ruffled petals in shades of blush pink and ivory that seem to flutter in the breeze. With a delicate fragrance and tall, sturdy stems, this tall bearded iris brings poise and romantic charm to the late spring garden—an ethereal presence among bold companions.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 85–95 cm
• Spread: 40–50 cm, upright and clump-forming
• Flower Colour: Pale blush-pink with creamy-white highlights and soft peach beards
• Flowering Period: Late spring to early summer
• Foliage: Grey-green, sword-like, deciduous leaves
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil; avoid winter wet

Uses and Benefits: Iris 'Dance Ballerina Dance' is ideal for mixed borders, cutting gardens, and formal perennial displays where its pastel palette can shine. Its tall, refined habit adds vertical interest without overwhelming, while its soft colouring pairs beautifully with other cool or warm-toned blooms. Long-lasting and lightly fragrant, it also brings elegance to floral arrangements.

Companion Plants: Pair Iris 'Dance Ballerina Dance' with Dianthus 'Classic Coral' for a romantic duet of ruffles and soft hues. Add Achillea 'Little Moonshine' for sunny contrast and a long season of bloom. Complete the composition with Festuca 'Blue Select', whose cool-toned foliage grounds the planting with elegant texture.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun with sharply drained soil. Position rhizomes just at or slightly above the soil surface. Water during dry spells, and avoid excessive moisture in winter. Divide every 3–4 years after flowering to maintain vigour and bloom production.

History: Iris 'Dance Ballerina Dance' was introduced by hybridizer Schreiner’s Iris Gardens in 1980, and quickly gained favour for its unique pastel blend and refined, ruffled form. It remains a cherished choice among gardeners who love elegant, vintage-style irises.

Final Thoughts: With its softly blushed petals and graceful stature, Iris 'Dance Ballerina Dance' moves through the garden like a whispered waltz—bringing poise, poetry, and pastel beauty to the spring show.