Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Iridaceae

Genus:

Iris

Species:

Iris bracteata

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Geophyte

Height:

1-2 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

may, jun

Bloom Colors:

Yellow, Purple, Brown

Ground Cover:

Yes

Native Range

United States: California, Oregon

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:

★★★★☆ Based on number of butterfly and moth species using this genus as host plant (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

well-drained, sandy or rocky soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to serpentine soils, which are low in essential nutrients

Germination Information