Miniature Tall Bearded Iris 'Bumblebee Deelite': A 1985 Norrick Gem

Miniature Tall Bearded Iris 'Bumblebee Deelite'

Hybridized by Norrick and introduced in 1985, Iris 'Bumblebee Deelite' is a delightful Miniature Tall Bearded (MTB) iris whose name perfectly captures its charm—evoking the busy, buzzing energy of a bumblebee and the pure delight of discovering a perfectly formed miniature iris flower.

Botanical Classification

• Family: Iridaceae (eye-rid-AY-see-ee)
• Genus: Iris (EYE-ris)
• Cultivar: 'Bumblebee Deelite'
• Type: Miniature Tall Bearded Iris (MTB)

The MTB Class: Table Irises

Often called "table irises," MTBs stand 16–27.5 inches tall with flowers 3–6 inches across—small enough for bouquet arrangements but large enough to show intricate detail. They bloom with the tall bearded irises but on more slender, graceful stems. MTBs are prized for their refinement: delicate coloring, intricate veining and stippling, and an elegance that some find more appealing than the bold showiness of modern TBs.

Cultivar Characteristics

'Bumblebee Deelite' likely displays the characteristic MTB patterning—perhaps yellow and brown blends, veining, or stippling reminiscent of a bumblebee's coloration. Norrick's 1985 introduction represents the MTB renaissance of the 1980s, when hybridizers began applying modern breeding techniques to this class, improving substance, branching, and vigor while retaining the class's innate grace.

Garden Uses and Culture

MTBs excel in the middle of perennial borders, cottage gardens, and cutting gardens. Their slender stems sway gracefully in breeze. Cultural needs: full sun, well-drained soil, shallow planting. They increase steadily but not aggressively. Divide every 3–4 years. Excellent companions for peonies, daylilies, and other late-spring perennials. A class that rewards close inspection—plant where their delicate beauty can be appreciated up close.