Blue Flag Iris
(Virginia Blue Flag) (Wild
Flag) Iris virginica
(Iris virginica shrevei)
Preferred Water Depth and Inundation Tolerance
Prefers wet meadow zone, seasonally flooded to a depth of 3 inches early in
the spring. Species will not tolerate constant inundation of more than 6-8
inches.
Wildlife Value
Seeds are eaten by waterfowl and muskrat. Hummingbirds have been observed
feeding on nectar. Also provides cover for amphibians, foraging habitat for
snakes, and habitat for many insect species.
Application/Zone
Used in lower shoreline zones and vegetated swales.
Availability, Establishment, and Maintenance
Seeds, transplants, and rhizomes are available from several commercial
vendors.
Seeds require cold, moist stratification for 120 days. Alternatively, they
can be planted on the soil surface in the fall. Warm spring temperatures
(higher than 75o F) and light will trigger germination.
Locally, few positive results have been observed from seeding on-site.
Seeds are usually eaten by birds and insects.
In the greenhouse, 99% germination has been observed from seed in 9 days.
Rhizomes and transplants should be planted in the spring.
Rhizomes may be temporarily refrigerated until planting. Plant them in 2-3
inches of soil on 0.5-1.5 foot centers, allowing growing points to be visible
above the soil surface.
Young shoots should not be inundated by water.
CAUTION: Severe dermatitis may result from handling rhizomes.
Blue Flag Iris
(Virginia Blue Flag) (Wild
Flag) Iris virginica
(Iris virginica shrevei)
