Standard Dwarf Bearded Iris 'Tantara': Fanfare for the Mid-Spring Border

The Standard Dwarf Bearded Iris 'Tantara' sounds a bright fanfare in the mid-spring garden. Introduced in 1981 by Ensminger, this cultivar brings the celebratory energy its name suggests—a musical flourish translated into floral form. Ensminger's work with dwarf bearded irises has produced numerous cultivars prized for their clean form and vibrant color.

Visual Characteristics

Cultivar Profile

Growing Notes

'Tantara' represents the standard dwarf bearded class at its most garden-worthy—compact, floriferous, and reliable. The SDB class is uniquely valuable for gardeners who want the bearded iris experience in a smaller scale. These irises typically bloom 2-3 weeks after the miniature dwarfs and 2-3 weeks before the intermediates, creating a seamless progression of iris bloom when all three classes are planted together. Ensminger's hybrids are noted for their strong stems, good bud count, and clean foliage. Provide full sun, well-drained soil, and shallow planting. They are excellent for edging, rock gardens, and containers.