Sterling Prince

‘Sterling Prince’ (Sterling Innerst, 1983) is a commanding tall bearded iris that brings a gallery-worthy presence to any garden. Reaching 36" (91 cm) and blooming early to midseason, this cultivar features refined beige tan standards and crisp white falls edged in beige tan, with a fine dusting of purple dots that create a painterly, high-contrast effect. The burnt butterscotch beard adds a bold accent, while a slight musky fragrance enhances its allure. With a pedigree that includes ‘Pencil Sketch’ and ‘Flamenco’, ‘Sterling Prince’ is a medal-worthy, exhibition-grade iris, recognized with multiple awards including High Commendation and Honorable Mention. A true collector’s piece, it’s a standout for both connoisseurs and those seeking a dramatic, conversation-starting centerpiece for their landscape. Available at Amethyst Creek Farm. Attributes: Edge Trim, Fertile, Fragrant, Guardian Garden, Historic Awards: Exhibition Certificate, 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.