Miniature Tall Bearded Iris 'Honorabile': Historic Dignity

Bearing a name of Latin dignity, 'Honorabile' is a Miniature Tall Bearded (MTB) iris cultivar with remarkable historic provenance. Hybridized by Lémon and introduced in 1840, this variety represents the very dawn of iris hybridization.

Historic Gallery

Heritage Record

'Honorabile' grows 16-27 inches, though as a very early hybrid it may differ from modern MTB forms. This cultivar is a living piece of horticultural history, dating to the era when iris breeding was in its infancy. The flowers likely display the characteristic bitone or bicolor pattern common in early hybrids—perhaps purple standards over white or yellow falls.

Culture follows MTB norms: full sun, well-drained soil, rhizomes at surface. Space 8-10 inches. This historic treasure deserves a place of honor in any iris collection. 'Honorabile' connects modern gardeners to the pioneering hybridizers who laid the foundation for today's iris diversity.