Vesper iris (Pardanthopsis dichotoma) Genus:  Pardanthopsis The flowers of vesper iris open in the late afternoon over a period of several minutes, just about the time the sound of evening vespers might have wafted over an old monastery garden. It is a valuable addition to the garden also because of its late blooming season (high summer into early fall) and for its ability to bloom from seed started the same spring. The vesper iris has typical iris-looking leaf fans and abundantly branched, willowy bloom stalks rising to 4 feet. The inch-wide flowers range in color from pure white to violet. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Late blooming season for an iris relative; beautiful flowers; easy from seed. Short-lived perennial. Care:  Best in full sun and fertile, loamy soil. Keep well watered and fertilized, especially if first-summer bloom is a goal. Propagation:  Plants produce abundant seed. Sow in pots or flats and refrigerate for 4 to 6 weeks. After coming out of cold storage, seeds will germinate in a week or two. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the threat of frost has passed.

Overview

Height 3 ft. to 6 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Showy Flowers Bloom Time Fall, Summer Flower Color Purple, White Uses Beds and Borders Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Perennials