Iris x robusta 'Gerald Darby'

Bare rooted - Iris x robusta 'Gerald Darby' - $8.
 
Iris × robusta is a designation for hybrids of two native American irises (Iris versicolor × Iris virginica).  'Gerald Darby' is a rhizomatous perennial to 1.2m in height, with arching, narrow leaves and purplish stems bearing 3-4 violet-purple flowers, the falls whitish at the base with a yellow flash and dark veins.  Grow in full sun in a damp location.
 
How to Harvest Iris Flowers
 
Harvest your flowers early in the day. Choose buds that are just beginning to open rather than flowers that are fully open. These buds will open within a few hours with the rest of the buds on the stem opening over the next couple of days. Place your flowers in a bucket of tepid water until you are ready to create your arrangement. When you are ready to arrange the iris flowers, re-cut the stems about 2cm above the original cut at an angle under water. Remove spent flowers immediately. Take care as some irises colours will bled and can stain. Check the water level of your vase often and top up as required. Replace water and recut stems every second or third day. Place your vase in an area that is cool and away from direct sunlight and drafts.