Welcome to the Southern Iris Group (formerly the Kent Iris Group). The Group was formed by members of the Kent Iris Group at the tail end of 2023 in order to expand the catchment area of its potential membership to include the southern area of England. However, membership is not restricted to those living within this area. It is a specialist horticultural group that concentrates exclusively on the large Iridaceae (iris) family. The iris family is unique in this country because the different varieties of this family can be found in flower most months of the year and can thrive in the full range of growing environments from hot, dry conditions to water loving varieties.
If you love iris and want to share this passion with like-minded people (and perhaps contribute to its development) please consider joining us. If you have any questions please contact us.
What We Do
Membership
News and Events
National Collection Holders
Useful Information
About Us
The Kent Iris Group was set up over 75 years ago by a band of people who were passionate about all things iris. They included Olive Murrell who ran the well-known Orpington Nursery, GP Baker, Gwendolyn Anley and Captain Lipscombe, all very knowledgeable on irises. The initial membership drive during 1947 attracted 27 members but by the end of the first year it had increased to 40 members. It was an offshoot of the British Iris Society.
The Kent Group continued to thrive sharing the love and passion for irises by hybridising, visits to gardens, annual shows, auctions and talks, including hosting the International Iris Convention in 2008. In the last few years the Group has decided to expand its area from the South East to encompass the whole of the South of England.
On the Blog
Dive in to the world of all things iris. Bearded, beardless, moisture-loving, irises in art, hybridising, species…..we shall talk all things iris….
Southern Iris Group 