Bearded Iris 'Obsidian'

‘Obsidian’ is a tall bearded iris with dark grape-purple standards that blacken toward the tips and velvet purple-black falls. The [American Iris Society profile](https://wiki.irises.org/TbKthruO/TbObsidian) records a 33-inch height and midseason bloom, and describes faint lilac tracings around the beard, cream-tipped dark-purple beard hairs, and a yellow throat. At 33 inches tall, place it in the middle or back of a sunny border where the dark flowers remain visible. In most climates, bearded iris grow best with at least six hours of full sun and well-drained soil; some shade can help in extremely hot climates. Plant with the rhizome top exposed and water to settle the soil, following Schreiner’s [planting guide](https://www.schreinersgardens.com/pages/how-do-i-plant-bearded-iris). ## Growing notes Newly planted rhizomes need moisture while their roots establish. Once established, bearded iris generally need extra water only in arid areas, according to Schreiner’s [care guide](https://www.schreinersgardens.com/pages/how-to-grow-care-for-bearded-iris). ## Maintenance Divide clumps before they become overcrowded, generally every three to five years. Schreiner’s [division guide](https://www.schreinersgardens.com/pages/how-do-i-divide-and-transplant-bearded-iris) gives July through September as a usual period, depending on location.