Iris subg. Scorpiris, commonly called Juno, is a subgenus of Iris, representing the smooth-bulbed bulbous irises. For a while it was an independent genus Juno Tratt. in some classifications.[1] [2] [3]
There are around 60 different species of Juno irises, making it the largest group of bulbous irises.They generally have thick fleshy storage roots (between a few and to several) under a fleshy-like bulb. Most are native to the Middle East and Central Asia (excluding China). There is a single Mediterranean species, Iris planifolia.[4] [5]
All the species are dormant in summer and then grow leaves in mid-winter or early spring.[4]
Many of the bulbs produce scented flowers. Most bulbs are not frost hardy and are best grown in a bulb frame or alpine house.[6]
It consists of a single section, Scorpiris.
Several Scorpiris have been crossed by breeders to produce various hybrids.[7] Including;
Between March and April, it has scented, bright sky-blue flowers with ruffled falls, with deeper blue edges. The deep yellow signals are covered with broken, purple lines. The standards are turquoise in colour. The broad style arms are long enough to cover half the falls. It grows to a height of 8 cm (3 in).[8]
Iris 'Warlsind' was created by a Dutch nurseryman called Thomas M. Hoog. It has standards that are pearl streaked with milk-blue. It also has bright yellow lozenges tipped with chocolate brown on its falls. It grows to a height of between 24 and 35 cm (10-14"). It is hardy in the US.[9]