Beach Head Iris

(Iris hookeri)

Beach Head Iris (Iris hookeri)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Iris hookeri, commonly known as Beach Head Iris, is a perennial herb that is native to coastal areas and not prairies and marshes. It is indigenous to the northeastern United States and Eastern Canada, particularly in Newfoundland. This Iris typically grows to a height of 0.7 feet (0.2 meters) and a width of 1 foot (0.3 meters). It forms clumps of narrow, sword-like leaves and produces striking blue to violet flowers, each with three drooping petals and three upright standards, blooming in late spring to early summer. The flowers are quite showy and add a splash of color to the garden.

Beach Head Iris is valued for its hardiness and the vibrant hue of its flowers, which make it a popular choice for rock gardens, border fronts, and wildflower gardens. It is also used in coastal restoration projects due to its tolerance of salt and ability to stabilize soil. This plant prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of moisture conditions, although it thrives with consistent moisture. It is relatively low-maintenance, but gardeners should be aware of potential issues such as iris borer and fungal leaf spot.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Purple, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to coastal areas in the northeastern United States and Eastern Canada

Other Names

Common Names: Canada Beach-Head Iris, Hooker’s Blue Flag, Hooker’s Iris, Beach-Head Iris, Iris De Hooker, Iris Du Canada, Iris À Pétales Aigus

Scientific Names: , Iris hookeri, Iris setosa var. canadensis, Iris setosa subsp. canadensis, Iris setosa f. pallidiflora, Iris setosa f. zonalis, Iris tripetala, Iris canadensis, Iris hookeri f. hookeri, Iris hookeri f. pallidiflora

GBIF Accepted Name: Iris hookeri Penny ex G.Don