Iris versicolor
Growing Information
• Plant Type: Perennial
• Sunlight: Sun to Part Shade
• Soils: Moist to Wet
• Bloom Time: Showy purple flowers in May, June, July
• Size: 1-3 feet in height and 1-2 foot spread
Also called, northern blue iris, this native will do best in garden soils with organics for moisture retention. Wear gloves and handle with care when transplanting, as the roots can cause minor skin irritation. Spreads both by self-seeding and extensions of rhizomes.
Garden Companions
Red Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis), Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis)
Nature Benefits
• Flowers attract a variety of butterflies and hummingbirds
Native Habitat
Marshes, wet meadows, shores of streams and ponds.