I've learned something new. When I think of RU overspray damage, I see deformity or discoloration. Not a new flower, which as you say, it's pretty in its own right. Where did the "blue" come from?

Probably it was blue from the start.

It was supposed to be a solid white. I think this is a case of a noid sneaking in with seller's white clump.

"Seller said her mom bought "a bag of iris" at a flea mkt 30+ years ago and this one likely came from that batch."

That sounds like they were ALL likely NOIDs, with a high likelihood of no-name seedlings mixed in due to lack of deadheading after bloom. Did ANY of what she sold you actually come with cultivar tags?

Nope… I know better than this. (Bowing head in shame 😔)

If you have lots of room and energy then that may not be a problem. However, if you live on a quarter acre, like me, and have limited time and energy, you likely will want to devote your limited time, energy and space to your absolute favorite named cultivars from the well known iris breeders, and reputable iris gardens.

Check out the cultivar names at https://wiki.irises.org/Main/I... , and if you scroll down to the bottom of that page, you can also see links to the even newer cultivars awarded, thus far, awards of merit, and honorsble mention.

I've noticed sometimes it maybe the first few flowers that show damage, or only one stalk closest to the spray. Just a wild stab in the dark, but I'd acquaint yourself with blue Iris from the 40's and early 50's.. Particularly award winners, as they tend to have staying power, are still popular and more widespread.
Here are a couple of Dykes winners from that time frame..
Eleanor's Pride

Blue Rhythm


Of course if it blooms normally and is full of ruffles... well, nevermind

Sherry is right. The old ones can be quite beautiful in a very elegant way. As they bloom, simply cull the ones that don't wow you, and keep the ones that do. But I'd say to wait another year to see what this blue one can do, and whether it's worth keeping.

Those are beautiful indeed. I will save it til next year. Many thanks to all who contributed such useful input. I'm new to iris. I'm thrilled that they do so well in my area. I am experienced with LA iris but germanicas are new for me.