10/04/2025
‘One Step Beyond’ – Tall Bearded
Hybridizer: Richard Tasco
Year Introduced: 2014
AIS Award: Honorable Mention, 2016
Type: Tall Bearded Iris (Iris germanica)
Height: Approx. 34 inches (86 cm)
Bloom Season: Midseason
Fragrance: Slightly spicy
Characteristics
Standards (upright petals):
Rich oxblood to brick red with lighter bronze coloring along the midrib.
Style Arms:
Golden yellow with brick red crests and a delicate blush near the rib.
Falls (lower petals):
Velvety jet black with distinct yellow veining near the beard.
Beard (central fuzzy line):
Golden-orange tipped with purple-black hairs.
Foliage:
Green with a medium purple base.
Growing Conditions
Sunlight:
Requires full sun (minimum 6 hours daily).
Soil:
Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Avoid heavy clay or soggy conditions.
Watering:
Moderate watering. Water thoroughly after planting, then allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Planting Tips:
Plant rhizomes horizontally, with the top just visible at the surface.
Space adequately for air circulation to prevent rot and disease.
Maintenance & Care
Deadheading:
Remove spent flowers promptly to redirect energy to rhizome growth.
Stalk Removal:
Cut flowering stalks down to the base after blooming.
Foliage Care:
Trim back foliage in fall to reduce disease and pests.
Division:
Divide every 3–4 years (best done 4–6 weeks after blooming) to maintain vigor and bloom quality.