‘Nightshade’ is a dramatically named Tall Bearded Iris, and its blooms certainly live up to the mystique associated with the name. This iris is known for its deep, dark coloration, often bordering on near-black, evoking the shadowy allure of nightshade plants. It’s a flower that commands attention and adds a touch of dramatic elegance to the garden.
The standards (the upright petals) of ‘Nightshade’ are typically a rich, velvety purple, so dark that they appear almost black in some lighting. This deep hue creates a sense of mystery and intrigue, like the depths of a moonless night. The falls (the lower petals) often echo this near-black purple, further enhancing the dramatic effect. Sometimes, the falls may be a slightly lighter shade of purple or a deep, dark red, adding a subtle variation to the overall color scheme. The interplay of these deep, dark colors creates a truly captivating and almost gothic beauty.
Adding to the drama is the beard, the fuzzy growth on the falls. The beard is often a contrasting color, such as a bright gold or a deep bronze, creating a striking focal point against the dark petals. This contrast adds a touch of brilliance to the otherwise dark bloom, like a flicker of light in the shadows.
‘Nightshade’ is a Tall Bearded Iris, so it stands tall and proud in the garden, typically reaching between 36 and 48 inches (90-120 cm). This height gives it a commanding presence, allowing it to serve as a focal point in the border or to add vertical interest to the landscape. The blooms are often large and ruffled, adding to the overall sense of drama and elegance. The combination of the deep, near-black coloration, the contrasting beard, and the stately height makes ‘Nightshade’ a truly captivating iris. It’s a flower that evokes a sense of mystery and intrigue, adding a touch of dramatic beauty to any garden. It’s a perfect choice for gardeners who appreciate the darker side of floral beauty and want to add a touch of gothic elegance to their landscapes.
American Iris Society Registration Data
- Description – VB1D. Deep violet-blue self; blue beard
- Hybridizer & Year of Introduction – Louise Marx, 1956
- Classification – Tall Bearded
- Bloom Period – Mid
- Bloom Height – 36″