Iris, Bearded Royal High

Royal High Bearded Iris makes a stately, mid-spring entrance with large, richly purple blooms on sturdy stems that rise to 24 to 36 inches tall. The classic iris form—cascading lower falls paired with upright standards and a prominent beard—carries an elegance that few spring perennials can match. As a bearded iris, it thrives in full sun with excellent drainage and rewards a slightly elevated or well-prepared planting position with the most vigorous bloom. The sword-like foliage remains a handsome green through the season, providing upright structure in the border even after the spring flower display has passed. It is reliably deer and rabbit resistant, and performs well in the challenging root zone of black walnut trees, giving it more placement options than many spring bloomers. Pair it with alliums, peonies, or catmint for a late spring combination that feels both classic and considered.