Iris ‘Before the Storm’ is a Tall Bearded Iris which is near black in color, making it one of the darkest of the dark irises. The flowers are moderate in size, mildly fragrant, and have falls which flare outward. The stems stand 36 inches high with buds that open mid season. It is an excellent cut flower and is attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds while resistant to rabbits and deer. Before the Storm was awarded Honorable Mention in 1991, Award of Merit in 1993, the Wister Medal in 1995, and the Dykes Metal in 1996. The Dykes Medal is the Nobel prize of the Iris world, given annually to just one Tall Bearded Iris. Iris is the name of the Greek goddess of the rainbow. The classic ‘Fleur de Lys’ which has been a symbol of royalty throughout history is an adaptation of the iris flower.