Dear PBS Friends, Iris unguiculares and I. lazica are 2 of the 3 members of this unique series of beardless iris (I. cretensis is the 3rd). The former is known as the Algerian Iris and is often grown in mild climates where it blooms in winter. It is probably reliable in Zone 7 and up. I lazica is from more NE and blooms about the same time, but is a bit hardier. After years of trials and losses I have both (finally) doing OK. I unguiculares had its last flower wither yesterday after a peculiar spring day of 91F (a record 9 degrees above the old). I think the first lazica will bloom today. I removed the stamens from I ung. yesterday to dry overnight and I'll apply the pollen to lazica today. SO... has anyone tried hybridizing these two species ? I couldn't find any info on hybrids, but someone who grows both might see something intermediate. I figured it was worth trying as both are in bloom. Why not? Appreciate any personal experiences trying this. 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 +