Iris Lineata

Iris lineata is a rare Regelia iris from the mountains between Tajikistan and Afghanistan. Slender spring stems carry two or three unusual greenish-yellow flowers intricately overlaid with brown-violet or purple veining, while a fine blue beard runs along the falls. The name lineata refers to this striking striped pattern. Narrow leaves retreat after flowering as the compact rhizomes enter summer dormancy. Best grown in an alpine house or sheltered bulb frame, it rewards close inspection and requires full sun, lean soil, sharp drainage and a hot, dry summer rest.