Iris, Blue Flag

Iris virginica var. shrevei

Height: 18-24in
Spread: 18-24in
Zone: 5-9
Exposure: Full sun
Bloom Time/Color: June; lavender/blue
Uses: Massing, rain gardens
Maintenance: Low
Other: Deer resistant, attracts butterflies, cut flower

Blue flag iris is a water loving native that thrives in moist, boggy conditions. Lavender-blue blooms appear in June and the sword-like leaves often droop (which is uncharacteristic of traditional iris). This particular variety of blue flag iris grows better in neutral pH soils. They prefer moist to wet soils and can even be grown in water or on pond edges. They also make a good cut flower and are a great attractor of butterflies and other pollinators.