Iris Black Gamecock (Louisiana Iris)

Incredibly vigorous, award-winning Iris ‘Black Gamecock’ (Louisiana Iris) is quite striking with its huge, velvety deep purple flowers, 4-6 in. across (10-15 cm), adorned with delicate gold highlights on each petal. Blooming between late spring and mid-summer (depending on the region), this southern native will multiply quickly if sited properly in consistently moist to boggy soil or even shallow water.

Incredibly vigorous, award-winning Iris 'Black Gamecock' (Louisiana Iris) is quite striking with its huge, velvety deep purple flowers, 4-6 in. across (10-15 cm), adorned with delicate gold highlights on each petal. Blooming between late spring and mid-summer (depending on the region), this southern native will multiply quickly if sited properly in consistently moist to boggy soil or even shallow water. A perfect choice for naturalizing along ponds and streams and an outstanding addition to aquatic gardens.

  • American Iris Society Mary Swords DeBallion Medal (the highest honor for a Louisiana Iris) in 1989
  • Grows up to 2-3 ft. tall (60-90 cm) and 2 ft. wide (60 cm).
  • Graceful and vigorous, this strong performer is easy to grow and low maintenance!
  • Performs best in full sun or part shade, in acidic, moist to wet, humus-rich soils. Prefers full sun, but appreciates some afternoon shade in hot summer areas. Grows well in up to 6 in. (15 cm) of standing water.
  • A welcomed addition to beds and borders, along ponds and streams.
  • Attractive to hummingbirds, but ignored by deer and rabbits.
  • All parts may cause discomfort if ingested. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.
  • Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.

Requirements

Hardiness 4
– 10

Heat Zones 5
– 9

Climate Zones 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1, H2
Plant Type Aquatic Plants, Perennials
Plant Family Iris Germanica – Bearded Irises
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Late)Summer (Early,Mid)
Height 2'
– 3'
(60cm
– 90cm)
Spread 1'
– 2'
(30cm
– 60cm)
Spacing 24″ (60cm)
Water Needs Average, High
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Clay, Loam
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Moisture Retentive, Poorly Drained
Characteristics Cut Flowers, Plant of Merit, Showy
Tolerance Clay Soil, Deer, Wet Soil
Attracts Hummingbirds
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Bog Gardens, Ponds and Streams, Rain Gardens, Water Gardens
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage