Luxor Temple

Luxor Temple is one of the most layered flowers we grow. Nine falls — an uncommon form, where most Japanese irises carry three or six — open in blue violet that warms to red violet toward the center, circling a large white halo with short white rays fanning out from a yellow signal. Petaloids at the heart add still more substance, and the style arms are white with blue violet crests.

Registered in 2013 by Bob Bauer and John Coble of Ensata Gardens in Michigan. The parentage is worth noting if you're interested in breeding: a cross of 'Frosted Pyramid' × 'Dark Lightning', then selfed — crossed back to itself rather than out to another plant.

Standing 36 inches with midseason bloom.

Japanese irises want moisture, especially through spring bloom season, and slightly acidic soil — they won't tolerate lime. Full sun gives the best performance. Hardy in zones 4–8.