Iris 'Black Gamecock' is a Louisiana iris hybrid, often sold as Iris louisiana 'Black Gamecock'. In early summer it produces velvety flowers of deep purple that look almost black, each with a gold flash at the base of the petals.

Black Gamecock at a glance

Botanical name Iris 'Black Gamecock' (Louisiana iris hybrid)
Common name Louisiana iris
Plant type Clump-forming iris; semi-evergreen in sheltered spots
Height and spread Flower stems to about 70 cm (RHS range 50–100 cm), 50–100 cm wide
Flowers Velvety deep purple, almost black, with a gold flash, June and July
Position Full sun or part shade (flowers best in sun)
Soil Reliably damp, rich, acid to neutral soil
Pond depth 0–20 cm of water over the crown
Hardiness RHS H4 – hardy in an average UK winter (-10 to -5°C)
Native to Garden hybrid of North American irises (not UK native)

Where to plant Black Gamecock

  • A pond shelf with up to 20 cm of water over the crown
  • Stream banks and wet ground beside a pond
  • Bog gardens with rich, damp soil

Is Louisiana iris hardy in the UK?

It is rated RHS H4, hardy through an average UK winter to about -10°C.

How to plant and care for it

Plant from spring to late summer. It is a heavy feeder, so use aquatic fertiliser tablets in ponds. Cut off faded flower stems and remove withered leaves in autumn. Divide in late summer after flowering.

Is it poisonous?

Yes. Irises are harmful if eaten by people or pets, and the sap can irritate skin, so wear gloves when handling it.

Which size should I buy?

Bare-root plants (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive without a pot or compost and are the most economical way to plant a group. Potted plants (9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive growing in our peat-free compost and give a faster display. Packs of 3 cost less per plant. The 2x Pot & Compost option is two plants supplied with pots and compost.

Pond depth: 0 - 20cm

Light: Full sun or part shade

Hardiness: Hardy

Height and spread: 40 - 80cm tall, 50 - 100cm wide

Planting and flowering months are shown in the calendar under the photos.

Bare root (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre, 3 litre): plants sent without a pot or compost, ready to plant straight away. The most economical way to plant a group.

Potted (9 cm, 1 litre, 3 litre): plants growing in our recycled, peat-free compost made in Lincolnshire. Larger sizes give a faster display.

Pack of 3 (7 cm bare-root, 9 cm bare-root, 1 litre bare-root, 3 litre bare-root): three plants of the chosen size at a lower price per plant.

2x Pot & Compost: two plants supplied with pots and compost.

Sizes shown with a line through them are currently unavailable.

At Lincs Plants, we strive to provide fast and reliable shipping to ensure your plants arrive in perfect condition. We offer 1-3 day shipping through a variety of dispatch methods to suit your needs.

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