■(TB) 'California Blue'

1929, Essig

'California Blue' (Edward Essig, 1929). TB, Early bloom. Color Class-B1M. 'Oriflamme' x 'Conquistador'.

Not to be confused with PCN 'California Blue'.

See below:

• * References

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References:

From Southern California Iris Garden catalog, 1929: CALIFORNIA BLUE (Essig, 1929) (Oriflamme x Conquistador). This is the most vigorous iris that we know and because of this as well as the size and color of the flower, and the great height of the stems, it should prove of great value in obtaining height and color in garden and landscape effects. This is especially true where color is desired in the early spring. The flowers are very large, averaging from 6 to 8 inches across; a rich bluish violet throughout, with a glowing cadmium yellow beard. The texture is medium; often there is a decided crepiness, especially in the early season, which usually disappears later. The stems are stiff, straight, well branched and from 4 to 6 feet high. The first seedling that bloomed in April, 1925, had two stalks—one 4' branched which carried 17 flowers and the other 3' branched which bore 12 flowers. The foliage is fine and large. One of the outstanding characteristics of this variety is its early and long continued blooming season, which usually begins in March or April with us and extends to the middle of May. Among the thousands of seedlings so far produced none has approached California Blue for the purposes for which it is recommended. The price has been reduced so that it can find an immediate place among the many blues already in the trade. $3.00.
From Iris City Gardens catalog, 1940: CALIFORNIA BLUE: (Essig). A most vigorous iris, fine foliage, long blooming season, large flowers, great height, well-branched and early. Rich bluish violet with a glowing beard. It is the most delightfully fragrant iris which we know. 4½ feet. 20¢.

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Culture

Quick Summary of Cultural Directions

BobPries - 21 Apr 2019

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Interested in Tall Bearded Iris? Please visit the: Tall Bearded Iris Society website.

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-- BetsyHiggins - 2011-03-05