Collection and evaluation of Iris species in Southwest China

Abstract

China is known as one of the most diverse centres of wild Iris resources in the world, there are 60 species, 13 varieties, and five forms distributed in southwest, northwest, and northeast China. The goal of this study was to describe the distribution, collection, and evaluation of Iris species collected in southwest China. Wild populations were identified and classified into 23 species, two varieties, and one form based on their morphological characteristics. We discovered some species with new distribution and characteristics. Furthermore, we also used the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) method with 16 indicator points to evaluate the collected Iris resources based on their ornamental value, utilization potential, and ecological adaptability. The results showed that I. pseudacorus, I. delavayi, I. germanica, I. wilsonii, I. sibirica, and I. tectorum had excellent ornamental characters and best suited for sustained exploitation. This research also provided a good theoretical guidance and an important reference value for the application of Iris plants in landscaping and provided suggestions for the conservation and utilization of wild Iris resources.