Iris versicolor
Blue Flag Iris
General
A perennial iris species native to North America, commonly found in wetland habitats such as marshes, swamps, and along stream banks. It typically grows 2 to 3 feet (about 0.6 to 0.9 meters) tall and forms clumps of erect, sword-shaped leaves. This iris species is known for its striking blue to violet flowers with yellow and white markings, which attract pollinators and add color to wetland landscapes.
Plant Description
Features tall, erect stems with long, sword-like leaves that are green and often have a bluish tint. Its flowers are large and showy, with six petals that are blue to violet in color, adorned with yellow and white markings on the lower petal (falls). Northern blue flag iris blooms create a vibrant display in wetland habitats during late spring to early summer.
Height (ft)
2-3'
Soil moisture
Medium to wet
Soil types
Muddy Soils or Humus
Wetland indicator
OBL
Shade tolerance
Intermediate, full sun to partial shade
Bloom color
Blue or purple
Bloom period
Summer
Drought tolerance
Low to none
Salinity tolerance
Low to none
Range
Northeastern United States from Maine to Virginia, and in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.
Kartesz, J.T. 2024. Floristic Synthesis of North America, Version 1.0. Biota of North America Program (BONAP) [website http://bonap.org/]
Additional Information
According to the BRIT - Native American Ethnobotany Database, this species has been used medicinally by many indigenous peoples in North America. Additionally, outside of medicinal uses, the Ojibwe tribe used this species to deter snakes. The scent of this plant would supposedly deter snakes when berry picking or prevent a snake from biting.