Iris lazica
James Waddick (Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:44:07 PST)

Dear Tony,
If you are astounded so am I. They are both in the ground and
both have bloomed last year. Both were planted as established plants
grown in the cool gh for a year, then planted out in our clay soils
on a south facing slope near the house and given a light airy mulch
of dry leaves, or pine straw this 'winter'. I think this is their 3rd
year, but 2nd winter to bloom in the ground. Last winter got to -6 F
and extended number of days below both 0 and more below freezing.
Really pretty harsh for us lately. We had quite a bit of damage on
some marginal plants, but not on these two.

Last year we added I cretensis which is also looking pretty
good, but may be too small to flower. Thanks Jane.

Buds have emerged from their sheaths on I unguiculares
recently, but no progress yet on I lazica. We expect it will bloom
fine, too.

Both plants came from Wildwood Gardens of Will Plotner in OR.
http://wildwoodgardens.net/other_species_%20&_spec…
Will hand carried plants to us during the AIS convention in spring
'09.

We tried these in other spots before, but seem to have found
the microclimate they tolerate. Fingers remain crossed, but shows the
truth behind believing in hardiness until you have killed it 3 x -or
more. These are both in front of a lovely and also "tender' bed of
Tetrapanax papyriferus. Wonderful plant. Just want a variegated
version.

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 +