Iris longipetala, commonly known as Coast Iris, is a deciduous perennial herb native to coastal grasslands and open woodlands of California. This species typically grows to a height of 1-3 feet and a width of 2 feet. The leaves are dark green or bluish-green, resembling grass blades. The flowers, which bloom in spring (March–April), are lightly scented and come in shades of creamy-white, pale blue, to lavender blue, each adorned with distinctive purple veining. The flowers are large and showy, about 4–6 inches (10–15 centimeters) across, with narrow petals, and each stem can bear 3–8 flowers.

The Coast Iris is valued for its drought tolerance once established, deer and cattle resistance due to unpalatable foliage, and its ability to thrive in wet heavy soils, including clay. It is a versatile plant used in garden borders, shrubbery fringes, and even near pond margins or in bog gardens. It is hardy to USDA Zone 3, withstanding temperatures not lower than 10 degrees F. For optimal growth, it prefers full sun in coastal areas and part shade inland. Regular watering is beneficial during the blooming period, but it requires less moisture post-flowering. It is also suitable for sandy loam soils and tolerates a long period of summer dryness, except in hot inland regions.CC BY-SA 4.0