UnguicularisThis Algerian evergreen iris and its named cultivars flower during the winter months, often providing blooms for the Christmas table. The flowers of the species are lavender blue with lavender veined white patches on the base of the falls, and a golden stripe along the rib. The most common cultivar is MARY BARNARD, which is a deep lilac, but there are other cultivars which cover the colour spectrum from pale lilac to deep purple/blue. There is also a pink hybrid from New Zealand, and a white version, which retains the gold rib on the falls.The closely related I lazica has wider leaves, and the sub-species I cretensis has very narrow grass-like leaves, and smaller delicate flowers. Other cultivars include marbled and striped forms, which are available from specialist suppliers. Fred Webbing Home |