'Shadows of Night'

'Shadows of Night' is a 2006 introduction from Rick Tasco of Superstition Iris Gardens. Nice substance, awesome blue beards, a sweet fruity fragrance, tall stalks and lovely ruffles make this one a winner.

 

'Glitter Gulch' and 'Calizona Gold'

A couple of southwestern theme names from hybridizer Margie Valenzuela. I was lucky enough get to take home these iris stalks after the SCIS meeting yesterday.

First, we have a vibrant yellow space-ager dubbed "Glitter Gulch."

 
And next, a distinctive golden iris with brown veining through the falls. Named for the theme of the 2012 AIS convention that was held in Ontario CA, this one is 'Calizona Gold.'

'Anxious'

Another rebloomer.

'Forever Yours'

Another beautiful rebloomer. Ben Hager, 1993. You just can't have too many white irises, they go with everything.

 

'Grace Kallam'

Named for a volunteer at the Los Angeles arboretum, this variety is said to be hard to find. Naturally, I found it at....the arboretum! Pretty delicate colors but not much substance, the flowers fade quickly.

'English Charm'

A beautiful hybrid from Australia's Barry Blyth. This one has lovely waxy substance almost like an orchid;  and that golden buttery-peachy brown! To die for.



'Clarence'

This lovely cultivar was hybridized by Lloyd Zurbrigg in 1989. Mr. Zurbrigg had a particular interest in "remontant" or reblooming irises; thost that rebloom in the summer or fall after blooming in the springtime. 'Clarence' is known for its reblooming qualities. It is also what is known as a "luminata" pattern. Luminata is a form of plicata characterized by lack of anthocyanin coloring in the base of the flower. The central area appears to glow, bestowing aThomas Kincaid art quality of candlelight shining from a window; hence the name 'luminata'.

This variety is named for Clarence Mahan, who served the American Iris Society as president for several years. Mr. Mahan wrote a book on iris history entitled "Classic Irises and the Men and Women Who Created Them".  He died in 2013. In addition to his vast knowledge on the subject of iris, Clarence was reportedly a kind and generous person. This beautiful cultivar is indeed a fitting tribute.