20 



IRIS DEFLEXA. 



It was received with the name Iris Nepalensis ; but from that species we think 

 it certainly distinct. 



" A fine-flowered specimen was sent to Sir W. J. Hooker about eighteen 

 months ago, for publication in the Botanical Magazine ; and we have since been 

 informed by that learned professor that he has considered it so near to Iris sub- 

 biflora, Bot. Mag. t. 1130, as to doubt if it be specifically distinct from that 

 plant ; which circumstance has caused its publication to be delayed. 



We feel assured that Sir W. J. Hooker will excuse our differing from him in 

 opinion, as after the most careful examination we believe our plant to be clearly 

 distinct from Iris suhbifiora. It differs from that species, first, in having the scape 

 flexuous, and deflexed, and bearing four and sometimes five flowers (never less 

 than three), and by having a three-sided germen. Furthermore, its constitution 

 is so very tender, that it requires a stove heat, or that of a warm greenhouse. 



Four or five plants of this species have flowered in the Birmingham Botanic 

 Garden, propagated from the parent plant, which have possessed all the peculi- 

 arities above mentioned. 



The treatment it requires is either a cool stove or a warm greenhouse ; but 

 Mr. Cameron, the indefatigable curator of the above establishment, says he has 

 never succeeded with it out of doors. It should be potted in loam and peat, and. 

 may be increased by dividing just before it begins to grow, which generally takes 

 place in September ; and during the winter months it usually puts forth its 

 flowers. 



