Bearded Iris 'Batik'

‘Batik’ is Allan Ensminger’s 1985 border-bearded iris, classified BB by the American Iris Society. Its midseason flowers have a white ground striped royal purple, with a yellow beard tipped in white; the AIS records a 26-inch height. ## Flowers and size Bloom timing varies among sources and climates: the AIS lists midseason, while retailer estimates span early to mid-to-late spring. Retailer size reports range from 23 to 26 inches tall and 12 to 18 inches wide; one reports a 12-inch spread. A 12–24 inch planting interval is separate from mature spread. See the [AIS cultivar record](https://wiki.irises.org/Bb/BbBatik), [High Country Gardens profile](https://www.highcountrygardens.com/products/bearded-iris-batik), and [Wilson Bros Gardens measurements](https://www.wilsonbrosgardens.com/iris-germanica-batik-1-gallon.html). ## Site and soil In most climates provide at least six hours of full sun; some shade can help in extreme heat. Use well-drained soil; the RHS lists chalk, loam, and sand for Iris germanica. Plant rhizomes shallowly with their tops exposed, then water to settle the soil. Newly planted rhizomes need moisture, while established irises usually need irrigation only in arid conditions. Avoid overwatering. See [RHS species details](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/9256/iris-germanica/details) and [Schreiner’s planting and watering guidance](https://www.schreinersgardens.com/pages/how-do-i-plant-bearded-iris). ## Maintenance After all buds finish, cut the flower stalk near its base and leave healthy foliage through summer. Remove brown or diseased leaves, then trim foliage to about six inches in fall. Divide crowded clumps every three to five years; in especially cold regions, cover rhizomes with breathable winter protection. See Schreiner’s [iris-bed care](https://www.schreinersgardens.com/pages/how-do-i-care-for-my-iris-beds) and [division instructions](https://www.schreinersgardens.com/pages/how-do-i-divide-and-transplant-bearded-iris).