Iris halophila, commonly known as Salt Marsh Iris, is a semi-deciduous to deciduous perennial herb that is native to saline and alkaline soils in meadows and steppes of Central Asia. It typically grows to a height of 20-70 cm with a clumping habit. The species is characterized by its rhizomatous growth, producing greyish-green, linear, erect, sword-shaped leaves. The flowers, which bloom from May to June, can be yellow, white, or violet, and are moderately showy, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

The Salt Marsh Iris is valued for its tolerance to saline conditions and its ability to thrive in challenging environments, making it a suitable choice for gardens in temperate regions that mimic its native habitat. It is often used in naturalistic plantings, water garden margins, and as a feature in salt-tolerant landscapes. This Iris species is hardy to −25 °C and can withstand harsh winters, although it may lose leaves, leaving just a few short leaf tips. It is recommended to plant between August and September for best establishment. For optimal growth, it requires full sun exposure and can tolerate a range of soil types, from moist, heavy clays to looser soils, as long as they provide slow to medium drainage. While it seeds readily and can outcompete more delicate species, care should be taken to manage its spread in garden settings to prevent it from becoming too dominant.CC BY-SA 4.0