Iris Chocolate Moose Bearded Iris

The American Iris Society Honorable Mention 2005

Chocolate Moose is an award-winning tall bearded iris that rises to about 3 feet in height and blooms midsummer. Its showy flowers have yellow shoulders, burnt yellow beards, and ruffled petals that are a unique shade of dark purple to chocolate brown haphazardly streaked in white. Borne on sturdy stems above sword-like fans of blue-green foliage, these fabulous flowers emit a slight, sweet fragrance that lures pollinators to the garden, especially butterflies. They are interesting cut flowers that make exceptional summer bouquets and remarkable additions to floral arrangements.

An Iris germanica cultivar, Chocolate Moose has an upright, clumping habit and a rhizomatous root system that causes the plant to spread and multiply over time. Iris Chocolate Moose is an herbaceous perennial tetraploid plant with 4 sets of chromosomes in each cell, which typically produces a larger plant with increased vigor. Bearded iris have the most impact in mixed beds, borders, and foundation plantings when grouped or massed. Plants that become overcrowded can be divided and replanted in other areas of the garden.

Bearded irises are hardy by nature, so they're very easy to grow and low maintenance. They grow and bloom best in sunny to partly shady locations that receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, thriving in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.1 and 7.2. But bearded irises tolerate most garden soils if given consistent moisture. However, they do not like wet feet, which can cause root rot, and they're fairly drought and heat tolerant once established. For best results, feed your plant about 6 weeks prior to bloom time with Espoma Flower Tone. Deer and rabbits are not particularly fond of irises and tend to leave them alone.

For more detailed information on caring for your bearded irises, be sure to check out our Iris Care Guide: How to Grow, Plant, and Maintain Iris Plants. Additionally, for advice on selecting the perfect irises for your garden, don't miss our blog on Tips for Choosing the Best Type of Iris Flowers for Your Garden. These resources will provide you with all the tips and tricks you need to ensure your irises thrive and beautify your outdoor space.