Dusky Challenger (Schreiner, 1986) TB FCC FG HM PF AM NA DM

Dusky Challenger (Schreiner, 1986), Seedling 1983-AA, is a historic tall bearded iris growing to approximately 39 inches and blooming midseason to late, renowned for its dramatic depth of color and commanding garden presence. Rich, silky, ruffled blooms open in a saturated royal purple with deep violet-black beards, creating a bold, velvety effect that stands out strongly in mass plantings. Introduced by Schreiner in 1986 with unknown parentage, it earned an extraordinary list of honors including the Franklin Cook Cup, Favorite Guest, Honorable Mention, Premio Firenze, Award of Merit, multiple Nelson Awards, and the prestigious Dykes Medal in 1992, and it was ranked #1 in the 2010 TB Symposium. Rebloom has been reported in California in USDA Zone 9b, adding to its already legendary performance.