A blooming obsession‘Iris Virus’ still going strong in this group after 40 years

• Published date: 31 October 2024
• Author: Paul Williams
• Publication title: Guardian, The

They all have one thing in common — a love of the iris flower

It’s a shared passion affectionately referred to as the “Iris Virus” and it’s this time of year, with the tall-bearded variety in bloom, that symptoms can be more pronounced.

They’re in good company. The colours and form of the iris flower have affected artists through the ages. While perhaps playing second-fiddle to the rose romantically, the iris pops up regularly in prose, and a work by famous painter Van Gogh was titled just that. Irises.

Ever since the Rangitīkei Iris Club was formed it has held an annual show and competition in spring, where the best examples of the flower are celebrated and stories and growing tips can be shared, and blooms of all colour and shape are displayed for public viewing.

At the end of the show, one flower will be crowned Queen of the Show.

Marton couple John and Sarah Vickers were part of a group of iris enthusiasts who met on November 7, 1984 to establish the Rangitīkei Iris Club as a way of sharing, showcasing and celebrating their passion. The club has met every month since.

John Vickers, the club’s first secretary, said it formed so enthusiasts could learn more, share their knowledge, and promote the species.

“It is an interesting plant. It stops people in their tracks when they see a bearded iris. That’s why they come to the show. You can see quality and quantity all in one place,” he said.

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