Re: proper id. for variegated irises?
- To: Multiple recipients of list <i*@rt66.com>
- Subject: Re: proper id. for variegated irises?
- From: "* a* C* W* <c*@digitalpla.net>
- Date: Fri, 2 Jan 1998 10:15:10 -0700 (MST)
Christy Hensler writes:
> Hi All,
>
> I have two forms of variegated leaf irises in my garden. Both have =
> lavender blooms and resemble TBs.
> One has yellow stripes on the green leaves, the other has ivory stripes.
>
> I was told that these were I. pallida variegata and I. pallida area =
> variegata, however, I'm under the impression that I. pallida has pale =
> yellow blooms.
>
> Anyone want to clarify this for me?
The natural flower color in I. pallida is varous shades of lavender,
violet, or blue-violet. Yellow flowers do not occur within this species.
The species name "pallida" (=pale, pallid) refers to the pale, papery
spathes, which are a distinguishing characteristic of this species, not to
the color of the flowers.
The form with the yellowish variegation in the leaves is given as I.
pallida variegata by the 1939 AIS Checklist, although nine synonyms are
listed as well (including aurea variegata, but not including "Zebra" by
which it is often referred to currently). The form with white variegation
is I. pallida argentea. It is a much weaker grower than the other, at least
in most situations.
Hope this helps!
Jeff Walters in northern Utah (USDA Zone 4, Sunset Zone 2)
cwalters@digitalpla.net
