26 A REMINDER TO PLANT TO HELP 



Karput (germanica) , they hang close to the stem, and in a few 

 varieties as Loreley (variegata), Anna Fair (plicata), Darius 

 (variegata) and Victorine (amoena) they spread somewhat 

 horizontally. In the case of a very few varieties both the stand- 

 ards and the falls approach the horizontal. Irises having the 

 standards open and the falls closely approaching the horizontal 

 are sometimes described as "orchid like" or having an "orchid 

 effect." 



On the upper part of the base of the falls there is a collection 

 of closely set hairs or down, which is called the "beard," whence 

 the name "Bearded Iris." 



Each flower has three petal-like stigmas which in some varie- 

 ties as Eldorado are so conspicuous from their size and color 

 as to give the flower the appearance of being semi-double. 



The flowers of all varieties are large, and some are of immense 

 size as Caterina (trojana), Ingeborg (interregna), Isoline 

 (squalens), Lohengrin (pallida), and Oriflamme (germanica)- 

 five to six inches deep, with segments two or more inches wide. 



Most of the varieties are sweetly scented, some being only 

 slightly but others very fragrant. Dalmatica (pallida), Floren- 

 tina (species), Monsignor (neglecta) and Walhalla (interregna) 

 are among the most fragrant, Fairy (plicata) is perhaps the most 

 fragrant of all, and Caprice and Mad. Pacquitte have an es- 

 pecially delicious fragrance. The very fragrant varieties are 

 probably much more numerous now than in early times, for 

 three hundred years ago a poet wrote: 



"The lily and the Fleur-de-lis, 

 For color much contending; 

 For that I them do only prize, 

 They are but poor in scenting." 

 Dray ton. 



Many years ago a British poet wrote: 



"Choosing for odour, 



The violet were mine men call her modest, 

 Because she hides, and when in company 

 Lacks manners and the assertive style of worth 

 While this narcissus here scorns modesty, 

 Will stand up what she is, tho' something prim: 



