Mississippi Native: Copper Iris
(Iris fulva)
Downloadable Brochure: COPPER IRIS
Other Name/s:
Red Iris
Description:
This species of iris is beardless, crestless, and flat-topped. The flower’s color typically ranges from copper to brick red. Petals are smaller than the sepals and droop towards the ground. The sepals spread out widely and arch downward. The flower has a six petal structure on its tall, slender stalks. The bright green leaves are narrow and long.
Season:
Blooming may begin as early as March and continue through May.
Size:
This Mississippi native usually grows 1 to 3 feet tall. The flowers, on average, are 2 to 3 inches wide.
Habitat:
The copper iris can be found along stream banks, in swamps, and in freshwater marshes.
Interesting Facts:
The copper iris attracts hummingbirds and bees. This particular iris is popular in many southern gardens, usually planted along pond edges. Unlike other iris species, such as the yellow flag iris, the copper iris is not considered invasive.
Planting Tips:
These irises can be reproduced by seeds or by root division. Root clump division is the most common way to increase the number of irises in a garden.
This iris likes rich, moist soils (acidic). It grows well in sun and partial shade with a low tolerance for drought. Because of rhizome production, it will need to be thinned occasionally.
