Iris, Louisiana 'Iris Red Velvet Elvis'

Iris 'Red Velvet Elvis' is a show-stopping Louisiana iris cultivar featuring velvety, rich burgundy-red petals with subtle veining and a bright yellow signal at the throat. The flowers are large, ruffled, and held on strong upright stalks above sword-like green foliage. Blooming in late spring, this iris adds bold color and texture to moist garden areas.

Grow Zone:
USDA Hardiness Zones 6–10

Height and Width:
Grows 30 to 36 inches tall and spreads about 18 to 24 inches wide.

Growing Iris, Louisiana 'Red Velvet Elvis'

Light Requirements:
Performs best in full sun but will tolerate part shade, especially in hotter climates. At least 6 hours of sun per day promotes optimal blooming.

Soil Requirements:
Prefers rich, slightly acidic, consistently moist to wet soil. It thrives in humus-rich areas such as rain gardens, along pond edges, or in shallow water. Avoid dry or poorly draining soil.

Watering:
Requires regular moisture. Keep soil consistently damp, especially during the growing season. This cultivar does well in boggy or saturated conditions and benefits from supplemental watering during dry spells.

Fertilization:
Feed in early spring with a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 to encourage healthy foliage and flower production. Apply again after blooming to support root development. Avoid over-fertilizing, as excessive nitrogen may reduce flowering.

Mulching:
Apply a layer of mulch such as pine straw or leaf mold around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Keep mulch clear of the rhizome crown to prevent rot.

Pruning and Maintenance:
Remove spent flower stalks and old or damaged foliage to improve appearance and reduce disease pressure. Cut back foliage in late fall to a few inches above the crown for a tidy winter appearance.

Pests and Diseases:
Generally resistant to pests and diseases, but good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering help prevent fungal issues. Watch for slugs or snails in overly wet conditions.

Winter Care:
Hardy through Zone 6, but in colder areas, a protective mulch layer in late fall can help insulate the crown. Remove mulch in early spring as new growth emerges.

Bloom Time:
Typically blooms in late spring, often in April or May depending on regional climate.

Uses:
Perfect for rain gardens, pond edges, water features, or any consistently moist garden bed. Excellent for cut flower arrangements and native plant-inspired landscapes. Suitable for mass plantings, borders, and naturalized areas.

Native Range:
Derived from native Louisiana iris species found in the Gulf Coast region of the southeastern United States. This cultivar maintains the water-loving traits of its native ancestry.