Iris 'Miss Apple'

Iris 'Miss Apple': A Juicy Jewel in Late Spring

Lush and luminous, Iris 'Miss Apple' offers a sumptuous display of ruby-red falls and ruffled rose-pink standards, warmed by golden throats and a touch of shimmer. Each bloom unfurls with elegance on tall, sturdy stems, bringing rich, fruity colour and vibrant energy to the late spring border.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 85–90 cm
• Spread: 40–50 cm, upright and clump-forming
• Flower Colour: Rose-pink standards and velvety red falls with gold beards
• Flowering Period: Late spring to early summer
• Foliage: Grey-green, sword-shaped, deciduous leaves
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil; avoid wet conditions in winter

Uses and Benefits: Iris 'Miss Apple' is perfect for adding warmth and drama to full-sun perennial beds, especially when paired with complementary tones or soft textures. It performs beautifully as a focal point in mixed borders and is prized for cut flowers. Its upright habit and vivid colour make it an effective bridge between spring pastels and summer brights.

Companion Plants: Surround Iris 'Miss Apple' with Gaillardia 'Spintop Red' for a sun-loving duet of fiery reds. Add Coreopsis 'Zesty Zinger' to provide vivid contrast and long-lasting blooms. Frame the planting with Panicum 'Blood Brothers', whose burgundy-tinged blades echo the iris’s deep tones while adding movement and structure.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun with excellent drainage. Ensure rhizomes are placed just at or above soil level to prevent rot. Water during extended dry spells and divide clumps every 3–4 years after bloom to maintain performance and vigour.

History: Iris 'Miss Apple' was bred for its unique blend of red and pink tones—uncommon in tall bearded irises—and has become a favourite for its saturated colour and reliable bloom. Its balance of warmth and elegance makes it a standout among late spring performers.

Final Thoughts: Rich as ripe fruit and refined in form, Iris 'Miss Apple' brings bold beauty and enduring charm to the sunlit garden—a delicious treat for the eye and the border alike.