Plant It Tampa Bay
Yellow Iris
Yellow Iris
Yellow flag iris or "flag" grows wild in wetland areas throughout North America, except for the Rocky Mountain states. It is not a native but naturalizes easily.
Many gardeners give up on the thought of growing yellow flag iris in the landscape once they learn that it is invasive, and this is too bad.
Not only does it bear attractive flowers, but it also has striking, sword-shaped leaves (1 1/8 inches wide) that are a nice greenish-gray color. The large seed pods that succeed the blossoms are well-suited to being used in dry flower arrangements too.
Its benefits extend beyond the fact that it adds wonderful color to the yard. It is also easy to grow, low-maintenance and useful as an ornamental pond plant. It is valued for its ability to live in wet areas of the landscape where many other plants would perform poorly, plus it is deer-resistant.
- 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 |
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Grow Best:Landscape Indoors Containers |
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Ideal position:Full to Part sun 3 to 6 hours morning sun best |
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Water:
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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 |
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Growth Outlook:Height : 2.5' - 3' Wide: Up To 18" Growth Rate: Slow Plant Spacing: 30" apart |
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Pet Friendly - No
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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.