Iris douglasiana
Douglas Iris
Description
Douglas iris is an evergreen perennial for shade or partial sun with blue violet spring flowers. It is a California native that is drought tolerant.
Maintenance Tips
Iris douglasiana is a small perennial wildflower that is native to California and Oregon. It matures at 1-2' tall and forms a clump of sword-like leaves that spread 3-4' wide. The flowers emerge above the foliage a few inches and are commonly a shade of purple. This is a very low-maintenance plant if it is planted in ideal conditions. These have evolved near creeks and naturally wet areas, so they are a great plant to use in swales or other lower elevations in the garden where water collects. In coastal gardens, this Iris is more drought tolerant, collecting their moisture from the overcast mornings. There is rarely any maintenance associated with these plants other than dividing them every few years if the clump becomes too large or dense.
Plant Type
Perennial
Height Range
1-3'
Flower Color
Blue, Purple, Violet
Flower Season
Spring
Leaf Color
Green, Dark Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Half, Shade
Water
Medium, Extra in Summer
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky
Soil Condition
Average, Well-drained
Soil pH
Neutral
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
English Cottage, Japanese, Meadow, Seascape, Water Garden, Wetlands, Woodland
Accenting Features
Showy Flowers
Seasonal Interest
Spring
Location Uses
Entry, Perennial Border, Foundation, Parking Strip, Patio, Raised Planter, Walkways, With Rocks
Special Uses
Container, Filler, Mass Planting, Fire Resistant, Naturalizing
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Water Saving Tip:
Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.