Iris versicolor | Northern Blue Flag Iris
DESCRIPTION
Iris versicolor features beautiful blue to purple flowers with intricate yellow and white markings. Blooming in late spring to early summer, this native iris adds color to moist, wetland areas, rain gardens, and naturalized settings. Its elegant blossoms are complemented by upright, sword-like foliage, which maintains its visual appeal after the flowers fade.
Originating from northeastern and north-central United States, Iris versicolor thrives in moist, well-drained soils, often found along streams, ponds, and marshes. Its ability to adapt to a variety of wet conditions makes it a valuable choice for water features or gardens with consistently damp soil. The plant's moderate size and upright habit make it suitable for borders, wildflower meadows, and native plant gardens, where it adds both structure and beauty.
DESCRIPTION
Iris versicolor features beautiful blue to purple flowers with intricate yellow and white markings. Blooming in late spring to early summer, this native iris adds color to moist, wetland areas, rain gardens, and naturalized settings. Its elegant blossoms are complemented by upright, sword-like foliage, which maintains its visual appeal after the flowers fade.
Originating from northeastern and north-central United States, Iris versicolor thrives in moist, well-drained soils, often found along streams, ponds, and marshes. Its ability to adapt to a variety of wet conditions makes it a valuable choice for water features or gardens with consistently damp soil. The plant's moderate size and upright habit make it suitable for borders, wildflower meadows, and native plant gardens, where it adds both structure and beauty.
DESCRIPTION
Iris versicolor features beautiful blue to purple flowers with intricate yellow and white markings. Blooming in late spring to early summer, this native iris adds color to moist, wetland areas, rain gardens, and naturalized settings. Its elegant blossoms are complemented by upright, sword-like foliage, which maintains its visual appeal after the flowers fade.
Originating from northeastern and north-central United States, Iris versicolor thrives in moist, well-drained soils, often found along streams, ponds, and marshes. Its ability to adapt to a variety of wet conditions makes it a valuable choice for water features or gardens with consistently damp soil. The plant's moderate size and upright habit make it suitable for borders, wildflower meadows, and native plant gardens, where it adds both structure and beauty.
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Family: Iridaceae
Height: 24 to 36 inches
Width: 24 to 36 inches
Foliage color: Bluish-green, sword-shaped leaves
Flower color: Blue to purple with yellow and white markings
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Water requirements: Moist to wet soil; tolerates shallow standing water
Maintenance: Low; remove faded flowers to encourage continuous blooming
Growing zone: USDA zones 3 to 9
Wildlife attractors: Attracts bees and hummingbirdsThis plant can be seen at the Center for Urban Horticulture.
