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Blue flag iris
Iris versicolor
Plant Type
Perennial
Hardiness Zone
3 - 9
Flower Color
Blue
Bloom Period
May through June
Height at Maturity
2 feet - 3 feet
Width at Maturity
2 feet - 3 feet
Sun Requirements
Part shade to full sun
Soil Type
Rich and moist
About this species:
The blue flag iris is known as the “flower of Quebec” as the three petals represent the fleur-de-lis. Flag iris comes from the English word "flagge" meaning rush or reed. When people talk about the flag iris, they are usually referring to the wild iris. The family of flag irises includes the blue flag which is commonly found in boggy areas of the northeast.”
The Blue Flag Iris is easy to grow. It can survive submerged in ponds with three inches of water above its roots with loamy soil in a container, in full sun. In the garden plants may need a layer of mulch to retain moisture. Cut back the flowers after they finish blooming but wait until fall to cut back the leaves. People use the dried seed pods in arrangements.
Propagation is by the spreading of its rhizomes, thickened roots, and may be divided every two or three years after flowering. Its rhizomes are poisonous causing low toxicity if ingested and skin irritation.
Its flat-out petals are attractive to feeding hummingbirds, bumblebees, and butterflies. It is deer resistant.
Key to Label Symbols:
Shelter | Hollow stems, leaves and roots are sources of shelter for wildlife. Insects may make a winter home under dropped leaves. Other animals may make shelters within the roots of the plant. | |
Food Source | Birds and other wildlife use the seeds, berries and leaves for their food source. Leaves may be used to help build nests for birds | |
Nectar Source | Bees, butterflies, birds and some insects use nectar for their food. Pollen is also used by some wildlife. |