Iris Play with Fire

Iris germanica 'Play with Fire' is a fairly old variety of tall bearded iris, which represents a significant advancement in the search for red, naturally absent in irises. The highly floriferous plant produces 9 to 10 buds per stem, with each stem branching into 3 or 4 branches, sometimes carrying 3 tightly packed buds in a cluster. They open into large, wavy, deep, velvety wine-red flowers, with a touch of orange at the throat. This dramatic colour will work well alongside blue or white varieties in borders and rock gardens.

Iris 'Play with Fire' is a rhizomatous, deciduous, perennial, upright plant. It belongs to the Iridaceae family. It is one of the many cultivars developed over centuries, with its controversial origin being debated around the number of chromosomes of potential ancestors. It is worth noting that Bearded Irises have European origins. 'Play with Fire' is a tall variety, reaching 90 cm (35in) high when in bloom, with branching stems and numerous flower buds. The clump will spread rapidly, with no theoretical limit over time, as the central rhizomes become bare in favour of the outer ones. The foliage consists of long, glaucous, heavily veined sword-shaped leaves. Floral stems appear in April and bloom in May, in the middle of the tall bearded iris flowering season, the flowers open from the top down. The rich, deep colour, as always with Garden Irises, is enhanced by the texture of the silky petals and velvety sepals. The discreet beards are a coppery bronze.

Developed by Schreiner, 1987. Awarded Honorable Mention in 1989 in the U.S.A.

Choose companion plants based on their requirements (exposure, soil...), non-competitive growth (low-growing or light-foliaged plants), appearance and flowering time. For example, Gaura will provide little shade to the irises and keep the faded iris bed attractive. Eschscholzia will thrive in dry, poor soil, just like irises. Geraniums, salvias, and Libertia also pair well with irises. Slopes and terraced edges can be stabilised by dense plantings of vigorous old varieties that can remain in place with minimal care. If the goal is more decorative and there is easier access for maintenance, modern varieties can be chosen, such as intermediates, which are often highly floriferous and less prone to bending in the wind or rain.

Tall irises can be planted at the base of a sunny wall, sheltered from the wind. They can be planted behind shorter, early-flowering varieties.

Border: the entire range of irises can be used, from dwarf early-flowering varieties to tall irises blooming in May, including intermediates (in terms of size and flowering time) and border irises, which are medium-sized but flower alongside the tall ones. Tall irises with heavy flowers are at risk of being flattened by the wind if not staked.

Mass planting: border irises and dwarf varieties can be used.

Mixed border: irises of all sizes can be used, either at the front or back, depending on the size of neighbouring plants.

Iris bed or iris garden: A judicious selection allows for two and a half months of blooming in spring. Choosing "perpetual" irises offers some additional flowers in late summer or autumn.

The vegetable garden can accommodate a few clumps of irises for cut flowers.