I think it's just natural they bloom further down in the stems, Cindi. It must be a trait they try to breed out. I know I have some that do that. Lucy and Dee would know that. I can't believe it would be a desirable trait. A few of my older sibs do it too.
I tend to get addicted to way too many plants, so I have to limit myself. This year it's been daffodils. I've never even kept the names of daffs before, but I finally put tags on until I can map them. I got 3 each of 40 varieties in a co-op to start.
But, it all comes back to irises, and for me lilacs.
Jan, Cindi and Angie, do you grow any irises besides bearded?