Tall Bearded Iris Iris 'Supreme Sultan' (TB)
ABOUT
Iris 'Supreme Sultan' is a stunning plant known for its impressive and showy flowers that captivate onlookers with their beauty. The plant's appearance is dominated by its large blossoms, which are characterized by their rich, warm color palette. The flowers exhibit a combination of deep golden tones and rich mahogany hues, boasting a velvety texture that seems to glisten in the sunlight. The petals are gracefully arranged with three upright 'standards' that give the flower its regal and elegant bearing, while the three downward 'falls' have a ruffled or slightly flared form, adding to the visual interest of the plant. The falls are often adorned with ornate veining or markings, which accentuate their sumptuous colors. The beards, which are the fuzzy structures that extend from the throat of the flower, add a contrasting pop of brilliance, typically in a bright orange or golden color that complements the overall hue of the blooms. The foliage of Iris 'Supreme Sultan' encapsulates a lush, green background that elegantly contrasts with the audacious display of flowers. It consists of elongated, sword-like leaves that extend upright and slightly arch, forming an attractive base for the floral display. The overall appearance of Iris 'Supreme Sultan' is one of grandeur and exotic allure, making it a coveted jewel in any garden where it's presented as a focal point of extravagant natural beauty.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Iridaceae
Synonyms
Tall Bearded Iris, Bearded Iris
Common names
Iris 'Supreme Sultan' (TB).
ToxicityTo humans
Tall Bearded Iris, including the 'Supreme Sultan' cultivar, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, the rhizomes (the root-like structures) can cause digestive discomfort if ingested. Eating large quantities of the plant, particularly the rhizomes, may lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. It is advisable to avoid consuming any part of the plant to prevent these potential negative consequences.
To pets
The Tall Bearded Iris, known as 'Supreme Sultan', can be toxic to pets, especially dogs and cats, if ingested. The primary toxic components are the rhizomes, which contain irritating substances. Symptoms of poisoning in pets might include excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and abdominal pain. Ingesting large amounts of the plant might lead to more serious complications such as gastrointestinal irritation or potential allergic reactions. To safeguard your pets, ensure they do not have access to munch on any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
3 feet [91 cm]
Spread
1-2 feet [30-60 cm]
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Landscaping Appeal: Adds vibrant color and a regal presence to gardens with its bold, large flowers.
- Variety in Garden Design: Can be used in mixed borders, as accent plants, or for mass plantings to create a visual impact.
- Attracts Pollinators: Draws in bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects that pollinate other plants in the garden.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Offers resilience in drier conditions once it has a well-established root system.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms are long-lasting when cut, making them excellent for floral arrangements.
- Seasonal Interest: Provides a burst of spring color when many other plants are just beginning to emerge.
- Erosion Control: When planted in groups, the robust root system helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ink Production: The petals of the Iris can be used to create a natural dye for eco-friendly ink formulations.
- Photography: The colorful blossoms of Iris 'Supreme Sultan' make it an ideal subject for botanical photography and can be used to teach aspects of macro photography.
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists might use the intricate patterns and vivid colors of this iris as a muse for paintings, drawings, and textile designs.
- Fragrance Extraction: Some irises contain fragrant compounds that are useful in perfumery; this variety may potentially contribute subtle nuances to complex fragrances.
- Floral Arranging: Irises are popular in floral arrangements, and the 'Supreme Sultan' adds a luxurious touch to bouquets and centerpieces with its rich hues.
- Floating Decorations: The large, showy flowers can be floated in water bowls as a decorative feature for garden parties and events.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not commonly consumed, the iris petals can be used as an edible garnish for high-end culinary presentations, after ensuring they are free from pesticides and safe to eat.
- Biodegradable Confetti: Dried petals of this iris could serve as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional confetti in celebrations.
- Herbarium Specimens: The plant can be preserved and used as a specimen in herbarium collections for educational purposes or botanical study.
- Handmade Paper: Iris fibers, when combined with other materials, can be used in the process of making handmade paper, adding texture and color.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Iris is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Iris is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Royalty: The regal appearance and name 'Supreme Sultan' evoke a sense of nobility and high status.
- Wisdom: Irises are often associated with wisdom, perhaps due to their sophisticated form and the deep, intense colors often found in this group.
- Faith: The iris has been a symbol of faith and belief across various cultures.
- Hope: The bloom of an iris can symbolize hope, representing a positive expectation for the future.
- Courage: Historically, the iris has been tied to the idea of courage, possibly because of its bold presence in the garden.
- Purity: White irises, in particular, represent purity, but the clean, clear colors of 'Supreme Sultan' can also suggest this meaning.
WaterTall Bearded Irises like 'Supreme Sultan' should be watered deeply but infrequently, ensuring the soil has good drainage to prevent root rot. Typically, watering once a week with about a gallon of water per plant is sufficient, but this can vary depending on climate conditions. During extended dry spells, increase watering to every 3-5 days. Drought conditions will require more frequent watering, but always allow the soil to dry slightly between watering sessions. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
LightTall Bearded Irises, including 'Supreme Sultan', thrive in full sun conditions, needing at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. They perform best in a spot that receives morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, especially in regions with very hot summers. Avoid heavily shaded areas, as insufficient light can lead to poor bloom production.
TemperatureTall Bearded Irises prefer temperate climates and can typically withstand temperatures as low as 5 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter. They thrive when daytime temperatures are between 68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit during the growing season. Although they can endure high summer heat, providing afternoon shade when temperatures surpass 86 degrees Fahrenheit can help maintain bloom quality.
PruningPruning of Tall Bearded Irises, like 'Supreme Sultan', involves removing spent flower stems at their base after blooming to maintain plant appearance and prevent seed development. Clean up any dead or diseased foliage during the growing season to promote good plant health. The best time for a thorough cleanup is late summer or fall, after the blooming period has ended.
CleaningAs needed
SoilTall Bearded Irises, such as the 'Supreme Sultan', thrive in fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.8 to 7). A good soil mix for these irises can be made with loamy garden soil, well-rotted compost, and sharp sand to improve drainage.
RepottingTall Bearded Irises like 'Supreme Sultan' generally, do not require frequent repotting. However, it’s recommended to divide and replant these irises every 3 to 4 years to maintain vitality and keep the clumps from becoming overcrowded.
Humidity & Misting'Supreme Sultan' Tall Bearded Irises are quite adaptable and do not require high humidity; they can flourish in average outdoor humidity levels. It’s important to focus on proper soil drainage to avoid too much moisture around the roots.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, minimal watering, cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant in sunny spot, well-drained soil, space rhizomes.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the 'Supreme Sultan' Tall Bearded Iris begins with seed germination, usually in late summer or early autumn, where conditions allow the seed to develop into a small plant. The plant enters a vegetative stage where it produces long, sword-like leaves and establishes a strong root system in preparation for flowering. In spring to early summer, it enters the flowering stage, during which the distinctive large, ruffled blooms in shades of orange, gold, and violet appear. After flowering, the plant sets seed, which can be collected for propagation or allowed to fall to the ground to potentially germinate and grow new plants. Throughout the growing season, the iris increases its size by developing new rhizomes, which can be divided usually every 3-5 years in late summer to propagate new plants and maintain vigor. Finally, the plant goes dormant in winter, conserving energy for the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer
The Iris 'Supreme Sultan,' commonly known as Tall Bearded Iris, is most effectively propagated by division. This process is typically done in late summer after the flowering has finished and the plant has gone dormant. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the iris clump and separate the rhizomes with a sharp, clean knife, making sure that each division has at least one fan of leaves and a portion of the roots. Trim the leaves to about one third of their length to reduce water loss and replant the divisions at least 12 to 24 inches apart, setting the rhizome so the top is slightly exposed to the sun to prevent rot. Water in well initially, then allow the soil to become moderately dry between waterings. With proper care, these divisions will establish and grow into new plants that typically flower in the next growing season.
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