Glimpse of the Heritage Gardens

A New Monthly Feature

Experience the perfect pairing for spring. The month of May and the Historic Iris Garden at Midway Village.

Although, this space is in the development phase it already bears some showy treasures. The linage of our plants dates back to before 1910, plus are registered and recognized by the Historic Iris Preservation Society. The plants are rooted in the vision of Midway Village staff and iris enthusiast, Dolores Avram. She is a prime donor in the collection, which now exceeds 60 different varieties of iris.

To get us started we will shine our spotlight on an iris with a name as regal as the garden in which it is planted. The Honorable - San Siouci is not just another yellow iris. Linger a moment and look at the beard of this iris to see a mahogany red pattern on a deep orange background. This is a unique glimpse of coloration for those of us used to seeing a classic purple color on yellow. Under certain growing conditions the intensity in the contrasting shades of the Honorable - San Siouci create the illusion of a velvety covered cushion. The Historic Iris Garden is located behind Ralston House in the Victorian Village and the plants are labeled so it is easy to make the acquaintance with some varieties older than Rockford itself.