Iris ‘River of Dreams’ is an Intermediate Bearded (IB) iris cultivar introduced in 1999 by hybridizers Keith Chadwick and Tony DeRose. This variety reaches a height of approximately 18 inches (46 cm) and is known for its late-season bloom. The standards (upper petals) display a dark violet base that blends into lighter violet towards the tips, while the falls (lower petals) are sky blue with bronze veining on the shoulders. The beards are white, transitioning to tangerine red near the throat, adding a vibrant contrast to the flower’s color palette. ‘River of Dreams’ was developed from a cross involving ‘Zounds’ and an unknown parent, resulting in its unique coloration and form. This cultivar is appreciated for its striking appearance and compact size, making it suitable for various garden settings, including borders and small garden spaces. It thrives in well-drained soil with full sun exposure, rewarding gardeners with its vivid and distinctive blooms during the late spring to early summer period.
American Iris Society Registration Data
- Description – S. dark violet base blending to light violet toward tip; style arms light violet; F. sky blue, bronze veining on shoulders; beards white, tangerine red toward throat. Zounds X unknown
- Hybridizer & Year of Introduction – Keith Chadwick/Tony DeRose, 1999
- Classification – Intermediate Bearded
- Bloom Period – Late
- Bloom Height – 18″