Re: Hyb:Genetics
- To: Multiple recipients of list <i*@rt66.com>
- Subject: Re: Hyb:Genetics
- From: "* a* C* W* <c*@digitalpla.net>
- Date: Mon, 23 Mar 1998 20:53:41 -0700 (MST)
Jan Clark asks:
> Barry lists IB's up to 26" in his catalogue. When does an IB become a
> BB?
Jan,
As Rick Tasco mentioned in an earlier posting, the AIS Judges' Handbook
defines and distinguishes the different classes of median bearded iris not
on the basis of heredity (genotype), but rather according to several
selected physical characteristics (phenotype).
The defining characteristics of Intermediate Bearded (IB) irises are:
"Plants 41 to 70 cm (16 to 27 inches); stalks nonflexuous, branched, and
extending above erect foliage; blooms 9 to 12.5 cm (3.5 to 5 inches) wide;
blooming period intermediate between that of the standard dwarf and tall
bearded irises".
The defining characteristics of Border Berded (BB) irises are:"Flower
stalks from 41 to 70 cm (16 to 27 inches) with flowers preferably 10-13 cm
(4 to 5 inches) wide on stiffly erect, branched stems; leaves shorter than
the flower stalks; bloom with the standard tall bearded irises of which
they are a smaller version with flower size reduced in proportion to
height."
Almost the only distinguishing characteristic between IBs and BBs is the
relative bloom season (IBs bloom earlier). A typical BB perhaps would also
have more extensive branching and a higher bud count than a typical IB.
It should also be noted that the AIS Judges' Handbook is currently
undergoing extensive revision.
Jeff Walters in northern Utah (USDA Zone 4, Sunset Zone 2)
cwalters@digitalpla.net
