Iris iberica var elegantissima

Iris iberica var. elegantissima one of the showiest of the Oncocyclus group of Iris. This naturally occurring variety is found in N.W. Turkey and into neighbouring Iran.

The seed parent of this bulbous Iris was found growing on dry rock strewn slopes at 2200m near Erzurum in Turkey. In full bloom the white standards resemble handkerchiefs (cotton of course) strewn about.

These broad creamy white standards are c. 100mm across. Purple streaking and mottling at the base develops into striations then a pepper dusting around the centre tip.

The two falls drop vertically from the centre of the flower. These are scallop shell shaped with white markings on dark mauve colouration. This is a must see plant displayed in the alpine house and with a second bud yet to open, extending the opportunity well into next week.

Iris iberica var elegantissima

Iris iberica var elegantissima