Blue Flag Iris For Sale
The Blue Flag Iris (Iris versicolor) perennial is a sun-loving, rhizomatous perennial and forms a distinct cluster of bright-green, blade-like leaves. Each cluster produces multiple long-stemmed flowers. The flowers, in combination with their gently curving leaves, create a graceful persona in the garden.
With its vibrant violet-blue flowers, it is no surprise that this plant is attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. This semi-aquatic plant will bring a menagerie of bustling pollinators to any wet garden area or the edge of your water feature. Nestle these water-loving flowers between accent rocks next to your stream or next to the gazebo that overlooks your pond. They are a vibrant addition to your gardenscape.
Iris versicolor Plant Details
Family: Iridaceae
Hardiness Zones: 3-9
Light Requirement: Full sun, partial shade
Water Needs: Medium to wet
Height: 2-3 ft
Spread: 2-2.5 ft
Growth Rate: Moderate
Bloom Time: Late May to June
Flower Color: Violet-blue with a blotch of yellow
Wildlife Value: Attracts pollinators
The Blue Flag Iris is native to the Northeastern USA and commonly found in wetlands and the edges of marshes and bogs. They are considered semi-aquatic plants. It will not tolerate shaded environments but can do well in partial sun.
This flower holds a special place in the heart of TN Nursery, as the Iris is Tennessee’s state flower. If you live in and love Tennessee, add this delightful flower to your garden to remind you of your beautiful home state!
Garden Uses & Care Tips
These iris versicolor will spread to form colonies of irises and can spread to fill an area in which you need full plant coverage. After midsummer, you can propagate this plant by division. TN Nursery recommends that you do so every 3 years to prevent crowding.
These low-maintenance plants do not require fertilization after establishment; however, they do appreciate bone meal just after planting. They thrive in moist, acidic soil with ample humus. Due to their robust rhizomes, the Blue Iris plants are particularly useful for erosion control. You can plant these with a native wetland perennial mix to further attract pollinators to your garden!
Key Benefits & Pollinator Value
- Attractive to pollinators
- erosion control
- low-maintenance
These elegant perennials are an excellent addition to your garden's wetland or moist area. Shop for Blue Flag Iris online at TN Nursery. For 68 years, we have served the landscaping industry and homeowners with specimen plants.
Customer Reviews
This Blue Flag Iris is outstanding. Vibrant flowers, sturdy growth, and it adds so much charm to my yard.
The iris took off within a couple weeks and is already blooming. Very healthy and strong from the start.
I planted them near my water garden and they’re thriving beautifully. Hardy, colorful, and easy to care for.
The Blue Flag Iris arrived fresh and strong. They’re taking root well, just wish the first blooms came quicker.
These iris plants showed up quickly and are thriving so far. I gave four stars only because they haven’t bloomed yet.
Does Blue Flag Iris spread?
Yes, Blue Flag Iris spreads naturally by rhizomes, forming beautiful clumps over time. Its steady growth makes it great for filling wetland areas or garden borders. With minimal care, it creates lush, colorful displays year after year.
How tall do Blue Flag Iris get?
Blue Flag Iris typically grows 2 to 3 feet tall, showcasing tall green blades and striking blue-purple blooms. Its upright growth adds graceful height to garden edges and water features. The vibrant flowers stand out beautifully against lush, green foliage.
How deep should I plant flag irises?
Plant Blue Flag Iris rhizomes just below the soil surface, about one inch deep. Make sure the top of the rhizome is slightly exposed to prevent rotting. With moist soil and sunlight, they’ll establish quickly and bloom beautifully each spring.
Exposure
Blue Flag Iris blossoms in complete sun to partial shade and prefers at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth and abundant flowering, although it may also grow in shadier spots.
Height at Maturity
Over 12"
Usage
Wetland Plant
Shipped As
Bare-root
Ships
USPS
Planting Zones
3-9
How To Grow
How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Perennials, Tubers, and Bulbs
Bare root perennials, tubers, and bulbs are an easy and economical way to jumpstart your garden with lasting beauty. These dormant plants should be planted in early spring or fall while the soil is cool and workable. Before planting, soak bare roots in water for 1–2 hours to rehydrate them. Choose a location based on the plant’s light needs—most flowering types prefer full sun, while others thrive in partial shade.
For bare root perennials, dig a shallow hole and spread the roots out naturally, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface. For tubers and bulbs, plant with the pointed side facing up at a depth about two to three times their height. Cover with soil, gently press down, and water thoroughly.
Keep soil consistently moist (not soggy) until new growth appears. Add mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid covering the crown or bulb tops. Once established, these plants require little maintenance—just seasonal watering, occasional dividing, and deadheading or pruning as needed. With proper care, they’ll return and thrive year after year.
