The Genus Iris

This site outlines research on the genus Iris that is ongoing in the laboratory of Carol A. Wilson at the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden. Each research page is presented in an abbreviated research paper format with goals, methodologies, findings and conclusions. Images are imbedded within the page or accessed by clicking on shapes (rectangles, triangles, squares or circles) that are dark gold.

The goal of the site is to provide information at a level that is informative to all who are interested in Iris. The citations for research papers are given for those who desire more information.

The American Iris Society, National Science Foundation and Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden provided funding for development of this site.

Since Iris is the Greek goddess for the Messenger of Love, her sacred flower is considered the symbol of communication and messages. Greek men would often plant an iris on the graves of their beloved women as a tribute to the goddess Iris, whose duty it was to take the souls of women to the Elysian fields.