Native [ris Catechism 
When is the best time to plant the native iris? 
The native iris may be transplanted any time in the spring, late summer, and early 
fall. Perhaps the best period is in July, August and September. 
What type of soil do the Louisiana Iris require? 
They can be cultivated in any type of rich garden soil, provided they have a reason 
able amount of moisture. 
Do Louisiana Iris multiply fast? 6 
Yes. The Louisiana Iris has a creeping rootstock (rhizome) from which new plants 
sprout up each year. These rootstock grow in all directions and in a few years each 
parent plant is the center of a colony of irises. A colony of them in full bloom is 
an entrancing sight. ; 
Do the foliage die down? 
Yes. In cold climate the leafy growth dies down in the winter, and in the hot dry 
climates it usually dies down in summer. 
How far north can they be grown? 
They are successfully grown as far north as Canada. In the far north the. soil 
should be very rich and heavily mulched during the winter. 
Should the Louisiana Iris be planted on dry land in the north? 
Yes. They have trouble surviving through rigorous winters if planted in wet places, 
but are perfectly happy if given a dry spot. 
When was the first yellow Louiciana Iris discovered ? 
In 1929 Mr. George Thomas of New Orleans, La. independently collected a canary 
yellow form of iris fulva. It was the only yellow of all United States varieties. 
What causes the iris foliage to turn yellow? . 
It is caused by the parasite puccinia iridis. A fungus disease known as rust. It 
should be controlled by burning all the old leaves before new growth starts. Spray 
ing with Bordeaux mixture or dusting with sulphur would be helpful. 

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(Photo Courtesy of New York Botanical Garden) 
COLLECTING IRIS IN LOUISIANA 
Dr. J. K. Small at right 
