This Group was formed in 1976 as the SS&J to encourage growers of beardless iris cultivars, which are among the easiest and most satisfying of irises for many gardens. Originally members concentrated on the Siberian, Spuria and Japanese irises (hence SS&J). Then the Pacificas were added and now many other irises are becoming equally popular. Since the Group was founded there has been an increasing interest in growing and hybridising these plants. Scientific work has added to their garden value by making it possible to cross species previously believed to be incompatible. As a result, the Group now has a very wide range of interests to offer and to reflect this progress the name was changed to the Group for Beardless Irises of the British Iris Society. We can suggest old and new plants for growing in all kinds of gardens and different types of pools. Naturally, members offer to sell plants and there is the chance to buy seeds from home and abroad. An extensive library is available to UK members and the Librarian will help with other enquiries from any member. While the Group, as such, has no regular meetings, members can be found at the various shows of the British Iris Society, or at The Spring Gardening Show, Malvern and are happy to talk about their special interests. A newsletter is produced with material from abroad as well as the British Isles provide opportunities for members to air problems that they have found growing irises and to contribute their solutions to other members' problems. The current subscription is £ 4 for UK and EC members, or £ 4.50 for all others including non-EC Europeans. Payment runs for the calendar year. Earlier newsletters can be purchased. If you would like more information please write enclosing a stamped addressed envelope (or international postal coupons) to the Hon. Membership Secretary, Alun Whitehead, Aulden Farm, Aulden, Leominster, Herefordshire HR6 0JT (Tel:01568 720129 or email: alun@britishirissociety.org.uk) Better still, if you would like to join us, send him your cheque or postal order made payable to the 'Group for Beardless Irises'. Membership includes all members of the family living at the same address, although only one newsletter per issue is sent. Home