Re: I. tectorum variegatum

From: HIPSource@aol.com

In a message dated 98-11-21 15:32:21 EST, you write:

<<  But, Anner, I can assure you I. tectorum variegata DOES exist! >>

Oh, I'm sure it does. Waddick was quite clear on the matter and the literature
mentions it with some regularity. I sent leaves to Mathew and discussed the
whole mess with him years ago when we first started seeing the plants in
trade. 
  
Half the iris world wants it--especially now with the current rage for
variegation--and some of them have asked me repeatedly where to find it. All I
can tell them is that at this point it appears to be a high end passalong
plant. 

Now what we really need is someone with a correct clone to make some available
to one or more of the better commercial nurseries so that we can get it
propagated and grown on for sale. I stand ready to help place it if the plant
material can be located and a donation effected. 

I would not expect it to come true from seed. Is this correct, Tom? If it does
send them along and I'll propagate them. I can have a fleet of the things set
to go by June from a February sowing.

There are rumors of it being available on the west coast which I am checking
out, and I wish to hear of all sightings. 

Here is what to bear in mind when you see a plant labeled Iris tectorum with
variegated leaves:

First, Iris japonica with variegated leaves, widely distributed in the
wholesale trade and being sold as I tectorum by Van B, is a stoloniferous
plant. Once in the ground it sends out long runners across the soil surface or
just beneath it with leaf tufts at the ends. I. tectorum has a stout rhizome
and moves outward from it with increase more like a bearded iris. Second, Iris
japonica has smoother, glossier, generally narrower and more supple leaves in
comparison to the leaves of Iris tectorum, which are tougher, duller, and
exhibit longitudinal ridges or pleating to a greater or lesser extent. 

And please bear in mind that all this elusiveness tends to make something more
desirable to many, but the really exotic iris here is I. japonica and it is
simply amazing that we are apparently overrun with it here on the North
American continent. You must love your japonica with the pretty striped
leaves.

Anner Whitehead
Commercial Source Chairman
Historic Iris Preservation Society
HIPSource@aol.com  




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