IRIS 149 



value for spring display in the rock garden. They are 

 of the easiest cultivation, growing freely in any light soil. 

 In colour the flowers vary from rich deep purple to yellow 

 and pure white splashed with blue. 



/. unguicularis (or stylosa, as it is often called). If 

 there is a spot in the rock garden at the base of a south 

 wall, that is the place to plant this winter-flowering 

 Algerian Iris. The lilac-blue flowers are fragrant, and 

 during mild weather in the winter are produced very 

 freely from established plants. If protected by a piece 

 of glass or handlight, this plant will give a continuous 

 supply of flowers for cutting. 



BULBOUS IRISES 



/. Danfordiae. One of the most beautiful of the early 

 Irises, having bright yellow flowers. When established 

 in clumps it forms a perfect picture in early spring. It 

 is quite hardy, native of Asia Minor. It does best in a 

 light, well-drained soil, in a sunny position, conditions 

 which suit most of the bulbous Irises. 



I. Histrio and /. Histrioides are two similar kinds 

 from Palestine. They are very early in flower, often 

 in February, and are hardy in sheltered positions. The 

 flowers are large, and mottled with white and rich lilac. 



/. orchioides. A distinct and hardy plant, very 

 attractive with its golden-yellow flowers, borne on leafy 

 stems. It likes a rather stiff soil that is dry in summer. 

 I. bucharica, with paler flowers, is very similar. Both are 

 native of Central Asia. 



