IRIS BLACK GOLD Iris chrysographes

These blooms appear almost black, but are actually a very deep blue/purple with stunning golden markings! Like most Iris, this plant is extremely hardy. Grow in regular soil, or moist soil.

Type: Perennial

Height: 24"

Location: Sun or part

Hardiness zones: 3-9

Seeds per pack: 3

Note: This plant species is known to have toxicity. Ingestion of these seeds or this plant can cause illness such as vomiting or diarrhea.

Germination: As with many perennials, these seeds benefit from a period of moist cold to help them grow. This is done by giving them a cold 'winter' period (artificial or natural), and then a warming to simulate 'spring', and time to grow! Here's how this can be done:

Obtain a planting container that has holes in the bottom for excess water to drain. Place the seeds just under the surface of your growing medium, and water. Place your container in a cold area (but not freezing, perhaps a refrigerator) for 5-6 weeks. Once the cold period is completed, place the container at room temperature for them to germinate. Be sure to keep the soil moist during this entire germination period. Seedlings will sprout a few weeks after the warming period.

Alternatively, these seeds can also be planted outdoors in fall, winter, or early spring, while temperatures are still cold (but ground is workable) to germinate naturally in spring. Be sure to mark the area where you planted them. This method is only advisable if you are able to ensure that the soil is consistently moist during the entire germination period.