The Aril Society International

The Aril Society International is a group of iris enthusiasts from around the world that are devoted to promoting the aril and arilbred irises.
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The Aril Society International is a group of iris enthusiasts from around the world that are devoted to promoting the aril and arilbred irises. We are a cooperating society with the American Iris Society.

Arils, or aril irises, are native to the Middle East and grow in Israel, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, Turkey, and some southern republics of the former Soviet Union. Aril irises get their name from the creamy white collar (or "aril") on their seeds. Despite their desert heritage some arils are successfully grown in places like Germany and Michigan.

Arilbreds, or arilbred irises, are the result of breeding aril irises with the more commonly grown bearded irises. The arilbreds are diverse in color and form. The combinations of color, size, and form make this a fun and exciting choice of irises to grow. Arilbreds are typically less fussy than arils when it comes to growing them in the garden.

Each year the American Iris Society judges select the best irises in each class. Those award winning irises receive an actual medal. Winning arils receive the C. G. White Medal. Winning arilbreds receive the William Mohr Medal.

Many of our members participate on the on-line robin called ARILROBIN. Some members host display gardens open to the public. And other members have commercial nurseries selling our favorite irises.

I. paradoxa and I. susiana photos by Rafael Diez Dominguez. 'Sand Dancer' photo by Rick Tasco.

Triennial Membership Promotion!

JOIN NOW!
Earn a $12 credit towards the Plant Sale with a 3-yr membership.

Or Australia & New Zealand members can opt for an $8 credit for the Seed Sale.
Plant Sale Status: accepting lists from donors
Seed Sale Status: accepting seeds from donors

In Memorial: Kenneth Trimmer

Late last year the ASI lost a dear & valued member, Ken Trimmer.

His keen interest in raising arils & arilbreds led him to become the founder of the online robin ARILROBIN on January 3, 2001. He also was a big donor to the Seed Sale & Plant Sale over the years. He has also been a valued ASI Director.

His enthusiasm for arils & arilbreds proved that our favorite irises could be grown in a harsh winter climate like Idaho's, although they originated in warmer parts of the world. Indeed, he will be greatly missed by all of us here at the Aril Society. He was a big part of our wonderful family.

Here is a link to Ken's online obituary or click the icon for a PDF version.

Copyright © 1996-2013 Aril Society International. Created April 25, 1996 by Tom Tadfor Little. Last update January 27, 2013 by Dennis Kramb.

Celebrating 15+ years on the web!