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Vesper iris

Pardanthopsis dichotoma

The flowers of vesper iris open in the late afternoon over a period of several minutes, just about the time the sound of evening vespers might have wafted over an old monastery garden. It is a valuable addition to the garden also because of its late blooming season (high summer into early fall) and for its ability to bloom from seed started the same spring. The vesper iris has typical iris-looking leaf fans and abundantly branched, willowy bloom stalks rising to 4 feet. The inch-wide flowers range in color from pure white to violet.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsLate blooming season for an iris relative; beautiful flowers; easy from seed. Short-lived perennial.

CareBest in full sun and fertile, loamy soil. Keep well watered and fertilized, especially if first-summer bloom is a goal.

PropagationPlants produce abundant seed. Sow in pots or flats and refrigerate for 4 to 6 weeks. After coming out of cold storage, seeds will germinate in a week or two. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the threat of frost has passed.

  • Genus : Pardanthopsis
  • Zones : 10, 11, 6, 7, 8, 9
  • Plant Height : 3 to 6 feet
  • Bloom Time : Fall, Summer
  • Light : Full Sun
  • Moisture : Medium Moisture
  • Maintenance : Moderate
  • Growth Rate : Moderate
  • Plant Type : Perennials
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest
  • Flower Color : White

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