numerous forms found in these iris only those of pleasing 
proportions are desirable. Large size alone does not insure 
a superior flower as many large flowers lack refinement or may 
be definitely ungainly, on the other hand the forms of many 
large flowers are highly refined—note the graceful and dis- 
tinctive forms of the varieties in the accompanying illustrations. 
Flowers should also possess sufficient substance to withstand 
ordinary weather conditions and hold their attractive shapes 
for their duration. 
Relative to color it is obvious clear color and decisive 
markings are most pleasing. Dull and indifferent coloring and 
indefinite markings are seldom if ever satisfactory, likewise 
those flowers which fade to an unattractive color are un- 
satisfactory. Placement of color or color arrangement may 
enhance or mar the beauty of a flower, and color, if of various 
hues or shades, should always form an interesting pattern. 
The colors in a truly worthwhile variety combine in such a 
manner that they can be said to sing. 
Plant habit also is important and a pleasing balance should 
exist between plant and flower—a flower which appears too 
small for the plant or one carried on a stem too tall for its 
size or the opposite effect is definitely not pleasing. Stems 
should be sufficiently large and strong to carry the flowers 
whatever their size as frequently stems are flexible or sprawl- 
ing which is a serious fault, and straight stems are much 
to be preferred to crooked ones. Flowers should be borne 
on stems with sufficiently long and well spaced branches that 
they are not crowded and also, the more branches to the stem 
the greater number of flowers the plant produces. Above all 
flowers should be well carried or poised on the stem without 
the disgusting habit of hiding their faces because of a weak 
neck. And lastly the plant itself when not in flower should 
be an attractive garden feature. 
The above mentioned and other qualities are given con- 
sideration in my selection of varieties for introduction, how- 
ever, all may not be present in full measure in all varieties 
the lack of any one to a considerable extent in a variety would 
have prevented its inclusion in this list. 
