Botanical name: Iris "Kansas City"

Botanical name: Iris "Kansas City"
Attributes: Distinguished as the darkest iris of its time, this hardy, vigorous plant with tall, bearded flowers is a deep violet purple that almost looks black. Kansas City iris was introduced and named in 1988 by Norlan Henderson, a local botanist and renowned iris breeder who is a retired professor from the University of Missouri-Kansas City.
Bloom color: Dark purple
Bloom time: May
Culture: Purchase large, mature fans, and plant in July or August to get good root development before winter. Plant in average, well-drained soil in full sun. It is not recommended to mulch around the plants or rot may develop in the rhizomes. Fertilize with a 6-24-24 formulation in late February or March around -- but not on -- the plant.
Landscape tips: Display irises in large masses for color and spring bloom. They also may be planted in perennial beds with peonies, daylilies and chrysanthemums for all-season color.
Cost: $5 to $20 depending on supply and availability.
Source: Powell Gardens (www.powellgardens.org)