Irises of NW Iran

[art600]

First a series of 'Moleskin' irises

[art600]

Another two 'Moleskin'  Second photo is Iris lycotis - this was filmed in a gale force wind, so I was particularly pleased to get such a good shot.

[art600]

Now for some Iris meda.  The first three were taken on my first trip, the fourth on the second trip when we went 3 weeks earlier and growth was not as forward.

[Maggi Young]

Oh, Arthur, wait till Lesley Cox sees these, she'll be in heaven!

I am not familiar with the term "Moleskin" irsies... is this a reference to their velvety texture?

[Paul T]

Oh Wow!!  Beautiful!!!!

[Maggi Young]

And would you look at the size of that clump of Iris meda in image 087 ! What a corker!

[art600]

Maggi

We described it as 'The Farrer Medal' plant - I am a southerner after all.

Arthur

[Maggi Young]

We described it as 'The Farrer Medal' plant

I would agree with that, Arthur... it would likely get a Forrest as well!

[Maggi Young]

Arthur... re my query.... why "moleskin" ??

[art600]

Maggi

The term was used in an AGS article by Jim Archibald - 'Queens of the Desert' I think.  It refers to the shiny black spot on the falls that resembles moleskin.  The irises are thought to be hybrids, but parents unknown.

Had gone to bed, but as cat is out in some foul weather, thought I would have another look at the Forum while I wait for her to come in - she is getting on in years.

[Maggi Young]

Thank you, Arthur.... hope the cat comes back soon...so you may sleep well!  Unless, of course, she is already tucked up by the fire at number 86, up the road.... cats do that sort of thing you know!

[art600]

Not at number 86 - not out at all.

[Luc Gilgemyn]

Gorgeous flowers !!!! I feel another addiction coming... 

[Lvandelft]

Gorgeous flowers !!!! I feel another addiction coming... 

Wish I was 40 years younger. 
Thank you Arthur!

[art600]

Luit

I drew my pension last September.  I was originally lucky that I know Bob & Rannveig Wallis who organised the first trip in 2004.  Subsequently, another friend from the first trip (who was responsible for me visiting Turkey for the first time in 1997) organised a second trip in 2005.  She has been back every year since and has organised this year's trip.  Average age - pensioners.
Desparately trying to lose some weight, but otherwise healthy.  You are only as old as you feel.