These are in a group of hybrid irises (Iris winogradowii x Iris histrioides), similar to one another but distinct from all species, and providing a very different splash of colour in late winter. The flowers, on short stems, are strange mixtures of yellow, pale blue and purple streaks. Apart from their colour, they are structurally like the well-known reticulata irises, so welcome at that time.

Iris 'Katharine Hodgkin' is believed to be of this parentage, although its raiser claimed Iris danfordiae rather than winogradowii to be involved. It has grey-blue and yellow flowers with purple streaks.