Iris Ciutadella - Bearded iris

The 'Ciutadella' Iris germanica is a recent variety of bearded iris with a contrasting and strongly wavy flower. Its white petals are barely tinged with lilac, in harmony with the dark red sepals, highlighted by a pale pink border, like some streaks towards the centre. The bronze beards are small. In the garden, this plant forms large, highly flowering clumps in spring, in the middle of the iris season.

The 'Ciutadella' Iris is a rhizomatous perennial plant that develops in elegantly upright clumps from spring, with its foliage disappearing in winter. It belongs to the Iridaceae family. It is one of the many cultivars obtained over centuries, whose controversial origin is debated around the number of chromosomes of potential ancestors. It should be noted that Garden Irises have European origins. They thrive in calcareous soils and require plenty of sunlight, with their rhizomes needing to 'cook' in summer to flower. A minimum of six hours of sunlight per day is generally required.

'Ciutadella', derived from 'Urban Cowgirl', will reach a height of 85 cm when in bloom, with 2 to 3 flower stalks per rhizome and 8 to 9 flower buds on each stalk. The clump will spread indefinitely over time, with the central rhizomes thinning out in favour of the outer rhizomes. The foliage consists of long and wide sword-shaped leaves, a slightly glaucous green, traversed by parallel veins. In April, floral stems appear that will produce bicoloured flowers in May, blooming from the top to the bottom. They consist of 3 upright and wavy, white lilac petals, dominating 3 wide, purple garnet sepals, with ample undulations along the edges. The beards are bronze. The colour of this plant is enhanced by the thick and iridescent texture of the floral parts.

Obtained by Cayeux (France), 2024.

To accompany irises, choose plants that have similar requirements in terms of soil and exposure. Opt for low-growing species or those with light foliage, which do not obstruct the light needed by the irises and do not compete with them, while offering staggered or non-staggered flowering. For example, Gaura will maintain visual appeal throughout the summer and hide the foliage of the Iris after flowering. California Poppies and love-in-a-mist, which tolerate dry soil, are compatible with irises. Perennial geraniums, salvias, and Libertias are also good companions that extend the flowering period. At the base of a wall, the relative shelter from the wind allows for the use of tall irises. If you are concerned about climatic uncertainties, choose intermediate iris varieties, which offer better resistance to wind and rain. Slopes, the base of small trees with light foliage, and terraced edges can be stabilised by a dense planting of old varieties that can remain in place and require little care.

The vegetable garden can be adorned with a few clumps or borders of irises for cut flowers.