This section is from the book "Cooking Vegetables. Practical American Cookery", by Jules Arthur Harder. Also available from Amazon: The Physiology Of Taste.
Iris, or Fleur de Lis. Irris.
No. 1027. - This is a genus of bulbous or tuberous rooted plants, the roots of which have an agreeable odor, resembling that of violets. The best variety comes from Florence, Italy. It is easily distinguished by its large white roots. As it will keep long and retains its flavor, it is substituted for the violet, which loses its flavor in a short time. The root, when ground into a flour, is extensively used by pastry cooks for various preparations.
 
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