THE IRIS. 125 



I. Xiphiodes. The bulbs of this species much resemble 

 the last ; but they are larger and rounder. The flower is 

 large, and very handsome. The plant is of stout habit. 

 Although called the English iris, and sold under the name 

 of Iris Angelica, the plant is a native of the Pyrenees ; but 

 it has been in cultivation from a very early period. It 

 propagates very slowly from offsets, but produces seed 

 freely ; and thus the varieties are very numerous. The 

 species and all varieties are perfectly hardy. 



/. Liisitanica. This fine species is somewhat rare, and 

 less hardy than the two last mentioned. The flowers are 

 yellow, buff, and purple, and very handsome. The culture 

 is simple, and similar to the last : only a slight winter pro- 

 tection should be given. 



/. Persica. This is a little gem of a flower, perfectly 

 hardy, and coming into bloom with the early crocus. 

 We can hardly describe in words its delicate and yet 

 striking beauty, nor do justice to the pleasing contrasts 

 of color which it exhibits. The plant is a native of 

 Persia, and yet endures our severest winters without 

 protection. 



/. tuberosa. The snake's-head iris is a fine species, 

 with rich, velvety flowers. It is a native of the Levant, but 



