Iris versicolor (northern blue flag iris)

Northern blue flag iris is a graceful sword-leafed plant similar to garden iris. This clump-forming plant has narrow, arching-to-erect, sword-shaped, blue-green leaves. Flowering stalks rise from the clump to 3' tall in late spring, typically producing 3–5 violet-blue flowers per stalk. Flowers have white and yellow markings at the sepal bases. Grows in sun or part shade. Prefers moist, rich acidic soils. Clumps spread slowly and naturalize by tough, creeping rhizomes. Good for sunny streams, ponds, wet garden areas. Note: Both the leaves and roots are poisonous.

Northern blue flag is native to the eastern U.S. and eastern Canada. It is common in sedge meadows, marshes, and along streambanks and shores. Attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, and other birds. 

Photo by Kellen McCluskey

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