Etymology: Iris: named for the Greek goddess of the rainbow
Plants: erect, perennial, semi-aquatic to emergent, 2'-3' tall forb; stems equal to or slightly taller than the leaves; roots stout, sometimes partially exposed rhizomes
Leaves: sword-shaped, cross-section V-shaped, in flat, fan-shaped clusters
Flowers: blue to purple, 6-parted, 4" wide, short-stalked, either no spot or a greenish-yellow spot at the base of the sepals; inflorescence held above the leaves; blooms June-July
Fruits: 3-angled, cylindrical capsule
Habitat: full to partial sun; wet; meadows, streambanks, water less than 40" deep; in sandy, loamy soil
Hazardous: Careful, this plant is hazardous!
Conservation Status: Native