Iris versicolor

 Sizes available: Landscape plug

Basics: zones 4-9, 24" x 12-24", full to part sun, medium, purply-blue in late spring to early summer, likes consistent moisture to wet soil that is acidic and rich, shallow standing water is ok

Common names: Blue Flag, Harlequin Blueflag, Larger Blue Flag, Northern Blue Flag, Poison Flag, Purple Iris (Great Britain and Ireland)

Family: Iridaceae

Origin/Distribution: southern Labrador to Manitoba, south to western Virginia and north to Ohio, Michigan, and Minnesota. Native to Maine.

Habitat: marsh, wetland edge, sedge meadow, low, damp spots in meadows and fields, along shorelines

More: Deer resistant and poisonous to livestock, attractive swordlike leaves throughout the growing season, showy purple flower in the late spring. This plant is toxic and the leaves may cause contact dermatitis. The rhizome is very toxic and gloves should be worn when handling. Like many plants with toxicity, Iris versicolor has also been used medicinally. The rhizome is dried and powdered for use in perfume and potpourri and imparts a violet scent to these mixtures. The leaves have been used to weave mats and baskets and the outer leaf fibers have been woven into twine. Carrying the rhizome is thought to help the bearer accrue financial gain and the rhizome has also been kept in cash registers for this effect. This plant is a strong colonizer in the right conditions.

Nursery: Honey Petal Plants

Image credits: Frank Meuschke from Shelterwood Gardens