Description:
A member of the dayflower family, this dwarf, compact, 12-18 in. tall and wide perennial is a very easy to grow, long-lived, and long-flowering form. Named for an Englishman, but is uniquely American native. Arching, smoky bluish-green, iris-like foliage blades have center creases causing the leaf to fold lengthwise. Deep purple, 3-petaled blooms with contrasting yellow stamens are borne in terminal clusters atop sturdy stems. Numerous flower buds are in each cluster, but each cluster only opens a few flowers at a time, each for one day only, for a long bloom season from mid-spring to late summer. It is very easy to grow in partial or full shade and prefers moist, well drained soils.