Copper Flag

Description

(Iris fulva) commonly known as Copper Flag or Copper Iris, is a native perennial forb (wildflower). It typically grows 18″-24″ tall and prefers full sun to part shade. Copper flag likes wet conditions and does well in consistently moist to wet soils.

The flowers are cross-pollinated by the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird and bumblebees.  Also attractive to butterflies. This species also provides food for hummingbirds and insects, including moths.

Because both the foliage and rhizomes are toxic, mammalian herbivores usually leave Iris spp. alone.

Does well in raingardens.  It can actually grow in up to 6″ of standing water! This beautiful iris is worthy of cultivation in gardens. Copper Iris has masses of beautiful coppery-bronze flag-like flowers at the ends of the stems from mid to late spring, which are most effective when planted in groupings. The flowers are excellent for cutting. Its sword-like leaves remain grayish green in color throughout the season.

Swamps and bottomland forests, and along the edges of sloughs, ditches, canals, and ponds, often in shallow water. Does well in pond or stream margins.  It is often found growing and blooming in standing water in spring-flooded areas that typically dry up as the summer progresses. Declining in the wild due to draining of swamps, dredging operations, and herbicides applied to ditches.

Plants that favor similar conditions can be found in our Wet Meadow Mix.

Videos About Native Plants

Watch a video about our Wet Meadow Mix, which favors the same conditions as this species.