>The F1 between Manfreda virginica and Polianthes tuberosa was tried in >Kansas Citywhere it perished. Zone 6b is probably just as far north as these >crosses will go. Dear Friends, Jon was kind enough to let me trial these here. Manfreda virginica is quite hardy and reliable. Polianthes totally tender. I grow a few other species of Polianthes, but in frost free situations. My situation is a somewhat harsh location with a very exposed garden that gets intense sun and cold. Manfreda does fine, but the hybrid turned to mush in one average winter. Perhaps a more protected - inner-city, or urban heat sink location might do better. I'd hope that possible F2s back crossed to Manfreda might keep some of the good Polianthes characters, but increase hardiness. These look like really excellent new additions to milder climate bulb gardens. I know Jon is balancing a lot of 'stuff' and this project doesn't always make the top of the list. Much appreciated though. Best Jim W. -- Dr. James W. Waddick 8871 NW Brostrom Rd. Kansas City Missouri 64152-2711 USA Ph. 816-746-1949 Zone 5 Record low -23F Summer 100F +