Iris virginica

This is the most common tall iris in the state, reaching up to three feet, and is usually the species one thinks of when picturing an iris. A lovely, delicate native found typically in wet areas. Clumps of bright green, somewhat droopy, sword-like leaves are topped with light blue to violet flowers borne on naked stems in late spring. The sepals are marked with white and can be crested with a showy “school bus yellow” frill. Southern Blue Flag favors marshes, lake and pond margins, beaver ponds, ditches and swampy areas. It does best grown in muddy wet places or rich soils in full sun and can even grow in six inches of fresh standing water. Great for edging a pond, planting in mass or adding to a rain garden. Spreads by rhizomes which can be divided for propagation as clumps form. Nectar attracts bumblebees, hummingbirds, and skippers. High deer resistance, but toxic to humans/pets if consumed and not drought tolerant.