SDB 12″ E

From Melrose Gardens catalog for 1968: “Dear Friends – For many years I have bred iris in hopes of getting a really fine one for your enjoyment. A couple of years ago, one bloomed in the seedling beds that I thought might be it. Last year when this seedling bloomed, I was sure of it. I just hope it is as exotic and as good a doer for you as it has been here, for if it is I know you will be as mad for it as I am. Round, domed and closed standards are a smoky orchid. the falls are a deep maroon red, a very positive color. Adding finesse to the whole is a full orchid purple beard. I hope you like it. Regards, Ben.”

((Cherry Falls x Cook 1546) X (Evening Storm x Welch pumila H501)).
HM 1968, JC 1968 & 1969, AM 1970, Cook-Douglas 1973.