Iris ‘Quicken’ is a striking Standard Dwarf Bearded (SDB) iris that was introduced by renowned hybridizer J. Terry Aitken in 1991. This compact iris stands at around 10 inches (25 cm) tall, making it an excellent choice for small gardens, borders, and container plantings. Blooming in early to midseason, ‘Quicken’ is known for its eye-catching plicata pattern. The petals have a crisp white base with intricate dark purple stitching along the edges, creating a bold and elegant contrast. Adding to its charm, the beards are frost white, tipped with violet, giving the flower a refined and delicate appearance.
One of the appealing traits of ‘Quicken’ is its ability to bring vibrant color and texture to any garden despite its small size. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, making it a low-maintenance yet rewarding choice for gardeners. This variety was developed through the careful crossbreeding of ‘Chubby Cheeks’ and ‘Peso,’ resulting in a hardy plant with excellent form and bloom performance. Due to its outstanding qualities, ‘Quicken’ earned an Honorable Mention from the American Iris Society in 1993, further solidifying its place as a beloved dwarf iris. Gardeners appreciate its vibrant coloration, compact size, and slight fragrance, making it a standout addition to rock gardens and mixed perennial beds.
American Iris Society Registration Data
- Description – White, edges stitched dark purple; beards frost white, tipped violet; slight fragrance
- Hybridizer & Year of Introduction – J. T. Aitken, 1991
- Classification – Standard Dwarf Bearded
- Bloom Period – Early midseason
- Bloom Height – 10″