The City of Iris

Edmond’s Iris and Garden Society Flourishes for nearly 100 years

By Amy Dee Stephens

the blooms, they knew they had saved 16 varieties, but after replanting them, this spring’s bloom revealed 40 varieties.

“We are actively seeking new places to plant them. We have a large iris bed we care for at Hafer Park, and we are hoping to add some at Stephenson Park,” Anita said. “My neighborhood at Town Square has some large circular gardens, and I was allowed to plant about 1,000 rhizomes, with help from boy scouts, E. J. West and his friends.”

Besides planting the rescued irises, Anita has found a passion for identifying the different hybrids and tracking where they first grew in Edmond. Much like an iris genealogist, she has a thick journal in which she adds names, notes, and photographs.

“All white or yellow irises might initially look the same, but when you compare two together, you will see different heights, flower sizes, and leaf colors,” Anita said.

Anita is currently trying to identify irises that either didn’t bloom last year or flowered in unexpected colors. She’s created an “incubation garden” where she tracks the mystery irises. She was also inspired to write a devotional book, Gardening with God.

“God is so creative. I get so much joy out of seeing the beautiful blooms, especially the ones I didn’t even imagine or expect,” Anita said. “During May, when the irises bloom, I rush to my gardens to see what flowers opened up overnight, and then I run get my husband, Kirby, and say, ‘Come see!’”

The Edmond Iris and Garden Society welcomes new members interested in all types of gardening. Visit Edmond Iris and Garden Society on Facebook to learn more.