Starring (Ghio, 1999) TB FG HM AM WM

Starring is a tall bearded iris introduced by Joseph Ghio in 1999, growing about 33 inches tall and blooming in the late midseason garden. The standards are clean white, complemented by white style arms with gold fringed crests. The falls are a dramatic purple black, creating strong contrast with the bright upper petals. Brick red beards add a bold focal point at the center of the bloom. Bred from a complex lineage including Notorious, Success Story, Fancy Tales, Alpine Castle, Persian Smoke, Entourage, Strawberry Sundae, Artiste, Tupelo Honey, and Romantic Evening, this iris became widely admired for its striking bicolor effect. Starring received Favorite Guest awards in 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004, the Honorable Mention in 2002, the Franklin Cook Cup in 2002, the Award of Merit in 2004, and the Wister Medal in 2007. It also placed third for the Dykes Memorial Medal in 2008.