Iris mariae is a species in the genus Iris, it is also in the subgenus Iris and in the section Oncocyclus. It is a rhizomatous perennial, from the deserts of Israel and Egypt. It is fairly tall, with long and slender glaucous leaves, and in late spring, lilac-purple to pinkish or violet flowers with deeper veining and blackish-violet signal and dark purple beard.
Iris mariae
Image: Negev iris road 222 revivim
Image: Negev iris road 222 revivim b
Subgenus Iris is one subgenus of Iris.
Iris subg. Iris
Close-up of the flower, showing the yellow hairs of the 'beard'
Bearded iris cultivar 'Stepping Out'
Iris humilis subsp. arenaria