Iris virginica loves damp conditions and grows well around the margins of ponds. Also known as the Southern Flag Iris, they really do require year round moisture to thrive. They will be evergreen in warmer climates and semi evergreen in cooler areas.
Flowering in early spring they will multiply quickly to form a strong clump. Excellent in the margins of a pond.
A number of varieties are available in Australia including
- I. virginica ‘Alba’ – A white flowering form with a splash of pale lemon on each petal
- I. virginica ‘Rosea’ – A deep pink to purple form
- I. virginica var. virginica – A shorter growing variety to around 60cm, dark purple to blue flowers.
- I. virginica ‘Orchid’ – A shorter growing form with mauve to blue flowers
- I. virginica var. ‘shrevei’ – This is a fragrant variety, the only one we know that is.
Care and growing conditions
Flowering in mid to late spring and reaching nearly 1m in height Iris virginica has sword like foliage and is a hardy water loving plant. A slightly acidic soil is best.
Availability
These Iris are not widely sold in Australia, however a number are available from specilaist water garden suppliers. Ebay is also worth a try.