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Public Plant Profile

Southern Blue Flag Iris

Iris virginica var. shrevei (Southern Blue Flag)

Category: Perennial • Iris

Southern Blue Flag Iris features stunning blue flowers and thrives in wet conditions, perfect for borders and pollinator gardens.

Mature Height: 2-3 feet
Mature Width: 1-2 feet
Bloom Color: Blue, Purple
Bloom Time: Spring to Early Summer
Light: Part Sun/Part Shade
Zone: Zones 5-9
Maintenance: Low
Growth Rate: Moderate
Season of Interest: Spring
Foliage: Deciduous
Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

The Southern Blue Flag Iris is a native wetland plant known for its striking blue flowers and sword-like leaves. It thrives in moist environments and attracts pollinators.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers consistently moist conditions. Best suited for wetland areas or near water sources.

Soil Preferences

Prefers well-drained, moist soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Adaptable to various soil types.

Sun Needs

Part Sun/Part Shade

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

borderpollinator gardenmass planting

Special Features

Attractive blue flowerswildlife-friendly

Wildlife Value

Attracts pollinators and provides habitat for wildlife.

Resistance / Tolerance

Tolerates wet conditions.

Notes from Our Designer

Great for naturalizing in wet areas. Combine with other moisture-loving plants for a vibrant display.

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Explore related plants, compare shape, texture, and overall planting style, and get a better feel for what may fit your own outdoor space.

Use this page to get a feel for where Southern Blue Flag Iris may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

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Is Southern Blue Flag Iris a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

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