Firewater

Firewater (Keith Keppel, 1977) is a tall bearded iris reaching 32" (81 cm), blooming in midseason. This variety features a rich, medium gentian blue self (M&P 43-D-10) complemented by a vivid flame to Indian orange beard, creating a bold color contrast. Bred from a distinguished lineage including Babbling Brook, Morning Breeze, and Crystal Flame, Firewater was awarded an Honorable Mention in 1978. No reblooming or fragrance is noted. Available at Amethyst Creek Farm. Attributes: Fertile, Guardian Garden, Historic Awards: High Commendation, Honorable Mention Guardian Garden (GG) This cultivar is a Guardian Garden Iris. Guardian Garden irises are endangered cultivars preserved through long-term stewardship rather than routine sale. Many of these varieties have been lost to time through attrition, discontinued propagation, or the disappearance of original growers, leaving only a few known living examples in cultivation. When a Guardian Garden variety is offered, it reflects that a sustainable stock level has finally been reached within our collection; availability remains intentionally limited to protect the cultivar’s future. We encourage collectors who value historic preservation to support the continued safeguarding of rare and endangered irises by joining the Historic Iris Preservation Society.