‘Lady Friend’ is a charming and elegant Tall Bearded Iris that offers a more subtle and refined beauty than some of the more dramatically colored varieties. This iris is appreciated for its delicate coloring and graceful form, making it a lovely addition to any garden.
‘Lady Friend’ is often described as having a blend of soft pastel hues. The standards (the upright petals) are typically a light, almost ethereal, shade of lavender or a soft blend of lavender and white. This creates a gentle backdrop for the falls (the lower petals), which tend to be a slightly deeper shade of lavender or violet, often edged with a lighter margin, further enhancing the flower’s delicate appearance. Some varieties may also display a subtle veining pattern on the falls, adding another layer of visual interest.
What sets ‘Lady Friend’ apart is not its bold colors, but its graceful form and the harmonious blend of its pastel shades. The flowers are often described as having a slightly ruffled or waved appearance, adding a touch of elegance and movement. The beard, the fuzzy growth on the falls, is typically a light color, often white or pale yellow, further enhancing the flower’s delicate appearance.
Tall Bearded Irises like ‘Lady Friend’ typically stand between 36 and 48 inches tall (90-120 cm), making them a striking presence in the garden border. They are ideal for adding vertical interest and a touch of classic beauty to any landscape. While the specific origin and hybridizer of ‘Lady Friend’ may be less widely documented, its enduring appeal lies in its understated elegance and its ability to bring a sense of tranquility and beauty to the garden. It’s a gentle and calming presence, a true ‘lady friend’ among the flowers.
American Iris Society Registration Data
- Description – Garnet red; red beard. Indian Territory X Countryman
- Hybridizer & Year of Introduction – Joseph Ghio, 1981
- Classification – Tall Bearded
- Bloom Period – Very early to early
- Bloom Height – 38