Blue Flag Iris

Iris virginica shrevei

Blooms: mid May - mid July

The Blue Flag Iris is the most common iris species found in Illinois. It grows in most parts of the state where there are moist soils such as in marshes and wetlands as well as in floodplain areas around rivers, lakes, and streams. It is a perennial plant that tends to grow up to 2-3 feet tall with a thick, green stalk and 1-3 violet-blue flowers per stalk. Leaves are long and pointed and usually hairless.