Bearded Iris 'Blueberry Tart'

Blueberry Tart is a Standard Dwarf Bearded iris bred by Chuck Chapman and registered in 2002. The early-blooming cultivar stands about 11 inches (28 cm) and can rebloom, though repeat bloom varies by climate and location. ## Flowers and Size Blue standards carry dark violet-red near their bases; reddish-tan falls have a brownish-red spot that fades toward a blue edge, with blue style arms and a dark-blue beard. The flared, tailored flowers are described in the [American Iris Society cultivar record](https://wiki.irises.org/Sdb/SdbBlueberryTart); [Schreiner's exact cultivar page](https://www.schreinersgardens.com/products/blueberry-tart) confirms its Standard Dwarf Bearded classification, 11-inch height, early and repeat bloom, and non-fragrant status. At this compact size, it suits the front of a sunny perennial border, where the flowers can be seen without being crowded by taller plants. ## Site and Soil Give bearded iris a sunny, well-drained site with open air circulation. The group generally needs at least a half-day of direct light for good flowering, and rhizomes should sit at soil level or just below rather than being deeply buried or mulched. [NC State Extension's bearded iris profile](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/iris-x-germanica/) describes the species group as best in full sun and well-drained soil; cultivar performance still varies with local conditions. ## Maintenance Water newly planted rhizomes well while roots establish, then prefer deeper watering at longer intervals over frequent shallow watering. Established bearded iris normally needs little supplemental water except in arid areas, and overwatering is a common problem. Divide crowded clumps every three to five years, generally after flowering. See the [American Iris Society's cultural guidance](https://www.irises.org/gardeners/care-classification/care/) and [Schreiner's watering guide](https://www.schreinersgardens.com/pages/watering-your-bearded-iris).