IRIS 
( Fleur-de-lis ) 
HE Greek word Iris means Rain¬ 
bow, and no other flower has so 
many combinations of delicate and 
unusual shades. The name Fleur- 
de-lis comes from its close resem¬ 
blance to the royal emblem of 
France. Legend has it that in 
answer to a vow of King Clovis, 
an angel brought from heaven this token of favor 
representing the Triune God, and it has been the 
Coat-of-Arms of France ever since. 
It is needless to say that the modern Iris is well 
worthy of even a celestial messenger on account of 
its beautiful form, texture and coloring. 
The millionaire may enjoy his hothouse orchids, 
but Dame Nature has placed within the reach of the 
humblest cottager an absolutely hardy substitute, 
growing in common soil, requiring but little care, 
and many rivaling the rose for fragrance. 
As with the Peony, we began a similar careful 
study of the many species and varieties of the Iris 
family. After twenty years of testing, taking into 
consideration our climatic and soil conditions, we 
have concluded to grow only those of the ger- 
manica type. 
Of these there are probably live hundred sorts 
to select from. The first variety begins to bloom 
about May 15, and there is a continuous succession 
from that time until the end of June. The life of 
each single Iris bloom varies from three to six days; 
and some stalks carry nineteen buds that unfold 
about one a day. For this reason they can be 
shipped long distances without injury if cut before 
opening. 
A reasonably moist but well-drained soil, with 
sunshine for at least a part of the day, will bring 
excellent results. 
In grouping, the tall varieties should naturally 
be located back of the shorter growing kinds. The 
best time for transplanting them is during the 
month of September, which allows the roots to 
become established before winter, though they can 
Ire moved any time except while in bloom or when 
the ground is frozen. 
In planting, be sure and make a plan of the bed, 
so yon will still retain names of varieties after 
the labels are gone. 
