A low Iris that is native to wet areas, mesic woods, and along streambanks, but will grow well in regular garden soil. The common name comes from the flowering stems that often do not hold the flowers above the foliage (only 5″ or so high). The “zig-zags”are often at 45 degree angles with the flowers. Flowers appear in June and are deep bluish-purple with yellow and white crested falls(the petals that hang downward). Short-lived flower. Great to use for stream and pond edges. Nice foliage in spring and fall (dormant in summer).
Native Plant Database
Header Photo: Mervin Wallace
Zig-zag Iris
Iris brevicaulis
Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennials
Native Environment: Savanna / Woodland, Stream Edge, Wetland
Season of Interest: Mid (May - June), Late (July - frost)
Main Color: Blue, Purple
Fall Color: Green
USDA PLANTS Range Map
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Medium Sun/Average Shade
Soil
Moisture
Dry, Moderate, High
Nature Attracting
Pollinators/Beneficial Insects
Wildlife Benefit
Animal
Resistance
Deer Resistant, Rabbit Resistant
Size
Height:
9 to
12
inches
Spread:
9 to
12
inches
Size
Height: 9 to
12
inches
Spread: 9 to
12
inches
Size
Height: 9 to
12
inches
Spread: 9 to
12
inches
Typical Landscape Use
Nice cut flower.
Establishment and Care Instructions
Will grow well in regular garden soil or naturally wet areas in full sun to partial shade. Very hardy.
Special Features
Special Usage
Rainscaping
Basic Description
Where Should I Start?
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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?
Learn about the Native Environment(s) inhabited by the plants in this database.