‘Midnight Mist’ is a captivating Tall Bearded Iris, a flower that embodies the mystery and allure of a moonlit night. Imagine a garden bathed in the soft glow of moonlight, where shadows dance and secrets unfold – that’s the essence of ‘Midnight Mist’. This iris presents deep, velvety standards (the upright petals) in shades of rich purple or midnight blue, reminiscent of the deepest part of the night sky just before the stars begin to blaze. These dark standards provide a dramatic and luxurious backdrop for the falls (the lower petals). The falls echo the same rich hues of purple or blue but may be slightly lighter, sometimes displaying a subtle sheen of silver or gray, like mist swirling in the moonlight or a whisper of fog rolling across a dark landscape. This subtle shimmer adds depth and intrigue, hinting at hidden wonders within the bloom.
The beard, the fuzzy growth that graces the falls, often provides a striking and unexpected contrast. Imagine a sudden flash of light in the darkness – that’s the effect of the beard, often a splash of bright yellow or creamy white against the dark petals, like a lone star twinkling in the vast expanse of the night sky, or a distant light seen through the mist. This contrast is not just visually arresting; it adds a touch of magic and intrigue, drawing the eye to the heart of the flower and hinting at hidden depths.
‘Midnight Mist’ stands tall and proud, typically reaching between 36 and 48 inches. This height gives it a commanding presence in the garden, allowing it to serve as a focal point or to add vertical interest to a border. The blooms themselves are often large and ruffled, adding to the overall sense of drama and elegance. The combination of the deep, velvety colors, the subtle shimmer, and the contrasting beard creates a truly mesmerizing effect, captivating the imagination and evoking a sense of wonder. ‘Midnight Mist’ is more than just a flower; it’s an experience, a journey into the realm of beauty and mystery. It’s a whisper of enchantment in the garden, a reminder of the quiet magic that unfolds under the cover of darkness. This iris brings a touch of drama, a hint of romance, and a sense of timeless elegance to any landscape, making it a treasured addition for any iris lover.
American Iris Society Registration Data
- Description – S. very wide red violet plicata band, small white central area; style arms purple; F. white near beard, red violet luminata wash over center, darker red violet plicata band; beards white, violet in throat; slight spicy fragrance
- Hybridizer & Year of Introduction – Paul Black, 1995
- Classification – Standard Dwarf Bearded
- Bloom Period – Early
- Bloom Height – 14″