Image Credit: Pbjamesphoto
Common name(s): Oregon iris
General bloom time: mid to late spring
Identification: perennial herb, often growing in a tight clump
Leaves: very slender (5 mm wide), strong, and fibrous basal leaves up to 40 cm long
Flowers: large and showy blue to purple, often lavender in color; can be white to pinkish or even yellow
Fruit: 3.5 cm long in the shape of angled capsules
Habitat: open areas with access to light (i.e. grassy meadows, fields or pastures); low to mid elevations
Ecology: Oregon Iris attracts hummingbirds.
Fun Facts:
- Leaves were used by native people for braiding snares to capture animals as large as elk
- Flower petals form a landing pad for flying insects enabling easy access to the desired nectar
References: