Lilac Treat

Lilac Treat (O. David Niswonger, 1970) is a tall bearded iris reaching 34" (86 cm), introduced from the cross 'Rippling Waters' x 'Lovely Letty'. This midseason bloomer features a clean lilac self with exquisite ruffling and wide, well-formed petals. The semi-flared falls become more horizontal as the bloom matures, eventually folding upward at the end of its display. A deep tangerine-red beard provides a vivid contrast to the soft lilac tones. Lilac Treat is fertile both ways and has produced notable seedlings. Recognized for its exceptional form and color, it has received multiple awards, including High Commendation (1969), Honorable Mention (1971), and Award of Merit (1974). Available at Amethyst Creek Farm. Attributes: Guardian Garden, Historic Awards: Award of Merit, Favorite Guest, 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.