About
Iris versicolor, the blue flag, is a rhizomatous perennial to 80 cm with narrow, erect foliage and branched stems bearing several bluish-purple flowers 6�8 cm wide in late spring and early summer, the falls with a conspicuously veined white basal patch. The state flower of Tennessee. An outstanding, easy and ornamental iris for a moist or waterside position.
About the genus
Iris are rhizomatous or bulbous perennials with narrow, often sword-shaped leaves and erect stems bearing flowers with three large, spreading or pendent fall petals alternating with three erect, often smaller, standard petals in late winter, spring or early summer. One of the most varied and spectacular of all plant genera, encompassing everything from tiny bulbous species to tall bearded border irises.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moisturePoorly-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeAquatic, Bogs, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildflower meadow, Cottage and informal garden
Native toN America
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist to wet deep, humus-rich, acid soil in full sun. Suitable for pond edges and bog gardens. See pond plants and bog gardens for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division from mid-summer to early autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs, snails and thrips
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to aphid-borne viruses, bacterial soft rot and grey moulds; see Iris diseases