Iris ‘Queen in Calico’ is a captivating Tall Bearded (TB) iris cultivar introduced by hybridizer James Gibson in 1980. This variety is renowned for its distinctive plicata pattern, featuring ruffled and laced petals with a light orange ground intricately marked by violet hues. The blossoms are further accentuated by vibrant orange beards, creating a striking contrast that enhances the flower’s visual appeal. Standing at approximately 34 inches (87 cm) tall, ‘Queen in Calico’ blooms in the midseason, adding a splash of color to gardens during this period. Its unique combination of form and coloration has earned it prestigious accolades, including an Honorable Mention in 1982 and an Award of Merit in 1984 from the American Iris Society. Gardeners and iris enthusiasts value this cultivar not only for its aesthetic beauty but also for its robust growth and reliable performance in a variety of garden settings.
American Iris Society Registration Data
- Description – Ruffled and laced light orange ground plicata, marked violet; orange beard
- Hybridizer & Year of Introduction – J. Gibson, 1980
- Classification – Tall Bearded
- Bloom Period – Mid
- Bloom Height – 34″