Iris germanica 'Sultan's Palace' is a regal bearded iris with deep velvety maroon falls and slightly lighter standards. Its rich jewel toned flowers complemented by golden beards lend dramatic color and elegance to gardens.
Height & Spread: 32 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Mid to late spring
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil
Watering Needs: Low to moderate; requires good drainage and occasional watering in dry periods
Deer Resistance: High
Native Status
Not native to North America. This cultivar is a hybrid of Eurasian iris species selected for ornamental breeding, especially prized in perennial borders and collector gardens.
Wildlife & Insects
Butterflies
- Draws attention from butterflies like Red Admirals and Painted Ladies that seek early nectar sources.
Bees
- Attracts native bumblebees and carpenter bees which navigate the ruffled petals for pollen and nectar.
Beneficial Insects
- Appeals to early season hoverflies and tiny pollinating beetles, supporting garden diversity.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Plant 18 - 24 in apart to allow for air circulation and prevent rhizome crowding as clumps mature.
Landscape Placement
- Use in mixed borders, foundation beds, or as vertical highlights where bold flower color is desired.
Companion Plants
- Penstemon digitalis (Husker Red) - Deep foliage tones and spiky white blooms contrast and bloom slightly later.
- Artemisia (Powis Castle) - Silvery foliage provides bright contrast and drought tolerance alongside the iris.
- Echinacea purpurea (Magnus) - Coneflowers continue the bold theme with magenta blooms and upright form.
- Salvia nemorosa (Caradonna) - Tall violet flower spikes and dark stems provide a striking foil to deep red iris tones.
- Lavandula x intermedia (Grosso) - Aromatic purple blooms and gray green leaves extend garden interest into summer.