Blue Flag Iris (blue flag)

The beautiful irises of South Florida include African, walking, blue flag, and one called blackberry lily.  These striking plants make great accents for their foliage alone, but all have exquisite flowers as well. 

The unique way that most plants of this type flower is to send up a shoot that looks just like a leaf. Then a bud appears on the side near the top, opening into a delicate and colorful blossom.

The classic upright foliage fans out and complements other textures and plant growth patterns. Some have wider leaves, others are more narrow.

• Space plants 30 in. plus apart

• Grows well in moist soil

• Flowers throughout spring

• Reaches standard mature height of 3 ft.

• Moderate disease and insect resistance

• Perennial, wet soil tolerant and clumping habit

• Grows in full sun to partial shade

• Ideal for water garden

• Low-maintenance once established

• Water 3 times to 4 times per week for the first growing season

• Winter hardy from USDA zones 8b to 11

• Not guaranteed to be in bloom on arrival 

	Advantages: Easy To Grow Low Maintenance Great For Mass Plantings Good For Containers
	Grow Best:     Landscape     Indoors    Containers
	Ideal position: Full to Part sun 3 to 6 hours morning sun best
	Water: Water regularly - weekly, or more often in extreme heat or containers.
	Healthy Temperatures: Warm, tropical vibes of 65-90°F Grown indoors as a houseplant but can be grown outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones 5-11
	Growth Outlook: Height : 2.5' - 3'  Wide: Up To 18" Growth Rate: Slow Plant Spacing:  30" apart
	Pet Friendly - No Toxicity: Toxic to Dogs, Toxic to Cats, Toxic to Horses

Landscape uses

• Around a landscape boulder

• Accent for a mixed bed

• Along a porch or deck

• Surrounding a palm

• Front of the border (African and Blue Flag)

• Lining a walk

• Foundation plant

• Around a tree trunk

• By the mailbox or lamppost
  

Plant care

Add top soil or organic peat moss to the hole when you plant. Because this plant does best with plenty of water, you may want to add water-retention crystals when planting, especially if other plants nearby like it more dry.

Trimming is usually necessary to remove any browned leaves and spent flower stems. Cut these as close to the ground as you can. 

Avoid a complete cutting back of the plant, however. 

You can also deadhead if you like, especially with the walking variety to limit its spread.

Water is very important - they need a regular drink and don't mind "wet feet" occasionally.

Fertilize 3 times a year - in spring, summer, and fall - with a good quality granular fertilizer. You might like to supplement feedings with bone meal and/or liquid fertilizer for year-round bloomers like African and blackberry iris.