I'RIS PER'SICA. 
PERSIAN IRIS. 
Class. 
TMANDRIA. 
Order. 
MONOGYNIA. 
Natural Order. 
IRIDAC/E. 
Native of 
Height. 
Flowers in 
Habit. 
Introduced 
Persia. 
4 inches. 
March. 
Perennial. 
in 1629. 
No. 807. 
For the derivation of Iris see previous numbers. 
The name Flower-de-luce, or Fleur-de-lis, some- 
times used for this genus, has been corrupted from 
the French Fleur de Louis, or Louis’s flower, a 
distinction it obtained in the twelfth century, in 
consequence of Louis VII of France having adopt- 
ed it as an heraldic symbol, when he joined the 
Crusaders. Subsequently it became incorporated 
in the French arms, and has so continued ever since, 
although in a somewhat corrupted shape. 
The Persian Iris is a delightful plant, which 
flowers early in spring, and by its odour reminds 
us of the forthcoming season of perfumes. These 
early harbingers of pleasure afford enjoyment by 
anticipation, independently of their own display of 
beauty ; and there are very few, it may be hoped, 
who are unconscious of the feelings of cheerfulness, 
and of the gratitude to an all wise benefactor, which 
they are calculated to inspire. 
It may be flowered in the borders, but with 
more gratification in pots of rich light earth. It 
increases slowly, which is unimportant, as Dutch 
roots can be purchased at half-a-crown the dozen. 
Loudon’s Ency of PI. 46. 
