Iris virginica (Southern Blue Flag Iris)

Iris virginica, commonly called Southern Blue Flag or the Virginia Iris, is a native wetland species with showy blue-violet flowers with intricate yellow markings. Blooming in late spring to early summer, its medium-height, swordlike foliage and striking blossoms bring bold texture and color to water and water's-edge habitats and average to moist garden settings alike.

The plant spreads gradually by rhizomes and seeding, forming attractive colonies that stabilize soils and provide erosion control along water edges. Iris virginica is a nectar source for bumble bees, long-tongued bees, and butterflies. Its rhizome mats provide shelter for amphibians and aquatic insects.

In landscaping, it is highly valued for its attractive upright foliage, and its utilization in rain gardens, pond edges, and naturalized water features. It is adaptable to average moisture garden soil in shadier settings, but will blooms more profusely in higher sun. It needs more moisture in more sun, and is not picky about soil type. It is not a drought tolerant species.