Iris brevicaulis, commonly known as Zigzag Iris, is a rhizomatous semi-deciduous perennial herb native to lowland areas, including swamps, wet meadows, and along the edges of water bodies in the South Central USA. It features bright green, glossy, sword-shaped leaves and a distinctive zig-zagged stem. Each stem can bear 3–6 flowers, which exhibit a range of blue shades from violet-blue to lavender, purple-blue, bright blue, and pale blue. The blooming period is early to mid-summer, although it may not flower annually. The plant forms large colonies, typically 2 x 3 feet wide, through its shallowly rooted, branching rhizome (about 10–25 mm in diameter).

Zigzag Iris is the hardiest and most adaptable of the Louisiana irises, appreciated for its striking blue flowers and ability to form attractive colonies. It is often used in water gardens, by the edges of ponds, streams, and pools, or as part of a woodland border. While it prefers acidic soils with a pH level of 6.5, high organic matter, and high fertility, it is versatile and can tolerate a range of soil conditions, including well-drained soils. Full sun to partial shade is suitable for this iris, with moisture being crucial during its growth period from late autumn to spring. A light feed may be beneficial between autumn and spring. Frost tolerance is moderate, but it may not flower well in cool summer regions. Generally, Zigzag Iris is trouble-free, even resisting deer browsing. In cultivation, it thrives with medium to high water requirements and soils with medium to fast drainage.CC BY-SA 4.0