Blue Flag Iris

Iris virginica

Family:
Iridaceae

Lifecycle:
Perennial

Native or Introduced:
Native

Nutrient Removal Rating:
High

Wildlife Value:
Low

Invasiveness:
Low

Rooted or Floating:
Rooted

Site Requirements:
Tolerates partial shade but better suited to full sun

Maximum Water Depth:
3-6 inches

Plant Description:
Blue flag iris produces dense clumps of branched rhizomes that serve as storage organs. These rhizomes are typically covered with remnants of old leaves. Fleshy roots and weak stems originate from the rhizomes. Leaves are basal and range in color from gray green to bright green and are highly flexible.

Flowering stalks are solid – usually producing 2-3 flowers. Flower colors range from white to blue to purple. Blue flag irises bloom from May to June in much of the eastern half of the US. Flowers are very attractive.

Blue flag iris prefers acidic soils.

Sources:

• Flora of North America (see link below),

Additional reading:

• USDA
• Flora of North America