This is a subgenus in the Genus Iris. It is characterized by rhizomes as opposed to bulbs, etc. and a lack of beards distinguishing it from the Subgenus Iris. It is made up of two Sections; Section Lophiris, and Section Limniris, In laymans terms these are the Crested Irises and the beadless Irises respectively.
-- Main.RPries - 2010-02-03