Re: what are?
- Subject: Re: what are?
- From: "* K* H* <H*@zool.umd.edu>
- Date: Tue, 13 Feb 96 21:43:39 MST
> From: Meg Lamey <meglamey@unm.edu>
>
> What do the following terms mean?
>
> prismatica, tridentata, verna, cristata, virginica, and hexagona?
>
> Meg
>
Meg:
Prismatica, verna, virginica, cristata (and versicolor) are native to
Virginia and much of the eastern U.S. All are shades of blue,
with some white forms occurring rarely. Virginica and versicolor are
primarily wet-site plants, but will do well in moist garden soil;
verna and cristata are primarily woodland plants preferring at least
partial shade; and prismatica enjoys a sunny spot in moist, rich garden
soil
The hexagonae species (fulva, brevicaulis, nelsonii, giganticarulea,
and hexagona) are native to the Mississippi River drainage and gulf
coast areas. They vary in color, with fulva being highly prized for
its coppery-red, and thrive in bog-like areas.
I'm not as familiar with tridentata, but it grows in the southeastern
U.S., and has purple-blue flowers.
Although it's true that these species are not as common in the
nursery trade as beardeds, siberians, etc., you can find some of them
fairly easily through large nurseries or native plant specialty
nurseries (especially in the southeastern U.S.). All can be had
through trades with species iris lovers.
I treasure these natives, both for their subtle beauty and for their
natural heritage appeal. They make great companions for the showier
beardeds and hybrid beardless irises, and can extend your bloom.
If you are interested in more about these often overlooked and
under-utilized (in my opinion) beauties, i'd be happy to point you
toward some other sources.
Dustin Howarth
Zone 6b?
Ashland, Va
(The snow is finally just about gone - until tonight, that is!)
Dustin Howarth
