Idaho: The Gem State Collection

Idaho: The Gem State Collection

Celebrate the beauty of Idaho with this carefully curated collection inspired by the landscapes, colors, and heritage of the Gem State. From mountain sunrises and high desert hues to treasured local namesakes, this collection showcases six distinctive irises representing a wide range of classes, colors, and forms. Included are Miniature Dwarf Bearded (MDB) and Standard Dwarf Bearded (SDB) cultivars, offering an extended display of early spring color and exceptional diversity in the garden.

This collection includes one rhizome each of the six cultivars listed below, for a total of six rhizomes. At a discount of $28! 

Included in this Collection

• 44 North
• Owyhee Opal
• Sawtooth Sunrise
• My Huckleberry Friend
• Bear's Ears
• Little Blackfoot

44 North (Schreiner, 2020)

44 North is a memorable Miniature Dwarf Bearded iris that commands attention with its cool lavender blooms and vivid blue beards. This early blooming variety offers a refined presence in borders, rock gardens, and spring displays. Enhanced by a slight fragrance and exceptional color clarity, 44 North is a standout addition for collectors and gardeners alike.

Attributes: Fragrant

Owyhee Opal (Schreiner, 2022)

Owyhee Opal is a striking Miniature Dwarf Bearded iris featuring crisp white standards and luminous white falls accented by a dramatic brown lavender thumbprint. White beards transition to soft lavender, adding depth and artistry to each bloom. Early flowering and elegantly refined, this cultivar delivers a memorable display in the spring garden.

Sawtooth Sunrise (Carol Coleman, 2008)

Sawtooth Sunrise is a vibrant Standard Dwarf Bearded iris inspired by Idaho's famous mountain ranges and colorful sunrises. Medium yellow blooms are dotted and edged with light wine and highlighted by luminous lavender accents. Sweetly fragrant and lightly ruffled, this cultivar provides exceptional color, charm, and garden performance.

Attributes: Edge Trim, Fragrant, Ruffled, Speckled

My Huckleberry Friend (Elm Jensen, 2010)

Named for one of the Northwest's most beloved wild fruits, My Huckleberry Friend is a charming miniature dwarf bearded iris with medium mauve standards veined in purple above softly colored falls flushed with rose. Its delicate coloration and compact stature make it a delightful addition to rock gardens, borders, and collector plantings.

Attributes: Veining

Bear's Ears (Schreiner, 2022)

Bear's Ears is a captivating Miniature Dwarf Bearded iris featuring luminous peach blooms dramatically marked with maroon thumbprints and finished with vivid orange beards. Strong fragrance and bold color contrast make this early blooming cultivar a true showstopper in the spring garden.

Award: AIS Honorable Mention

Little Blackfoot (Mattie Reinhardt, 1966)

Little Blackfoot honors Idaho's rich Native American heritage with bold, velvety red black blooms and dramatic garden presence. This historic Standard Dwarf Bearded iris produces saturated dark standards, falls, and beards that create a striking display. A proven rebloomer in many climates, Little Blackfoot remains a favorite among collectors and lovers of historic cultivars.

Attributes: Historic, Rebloomer

Award: AIS Honorable Mention

Known Rebloom Zones: 4b, 6, 7, 9

Rebloom Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Collection Summary

The Gem State Collection brings together six exceptional irises inspired by Idaho's landscapes, history, and character. Featuring a mix of Miniature Dwarf Bearded, Standard Dwarf Bearded, and Miniature Bearded cultivars, this collection offers a remarkable range of colors, patterns, fragrances, and garden forms. Perfect for collectors, Idaho enthusiasts, and gardeners looking to add early season interest and diversity to their landscape.

Collection Includes: One rhizome each of 44 North, Owyhee Opal, Sawtooth Sunrise, My Huckleberry Friend, Bear's Ears, and Little Blackfoot. Total of six rhizomes.