Native Irises
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True irises (iris) are flowering plants in the iris family (Iridaceae), and a variety of native and introduced species are found growing in home gardens and in the wild throughout the United States.
Approximately ten different species are Pacific Northwest natives, including the Yellowleaf Iris pictured above.
Mostly known for their beauty, irises are also very hardy plants, requiring little more than an area with partial sun. Otherwise, different species can be found growing in a variety of habitats from meadows to forests.
Despite their beauty, Irises also carry a caution label. Many, if not all species, are reported as having toxic roots that can cause problems when ingested by grazing livestock and pets.
The bottom picture shows the Tough leaf or Oregon iris (Iris tenax), native to the Cascade region of Washington State and Oregon.
© 2008 Patricia A. Michaels