Mt. Cuba Center
Iris versicolor "Purple Flame"
Purple Flame Iris
Perennial - Blooms Purple in Late Spring
Prefers Full Sun - Part Sun/Shade with Average - Wet, Acidic soil
Height: 1.0 - 2.0 ft, Spread: 1.0 - 2.0 ft
Deer Rarely Eat
Purple Flame blue flag (Iris versicolor ‘Purple Flame’) is a notable addition to the Mt. Cuba Collection™, introduced by the Mt. Cuba Center. Flourishing in the center's gardens for years, it made its debut in 2020. This indigenous iris boasts striking eggplant-purple foliage emerging in early spring, a distinctive ornamental trait. As temperatures rise, its vivid purple leaves transition to green hues akin to the Iris versicolor species. Come late spring to early summer, its dark stems bear captivating dark purple flowers, drawing in butterflies and hummingbirds. This adaptable perennial thrives in various garden conditions, tolerating saturated substrates and even thriving when submerged. Whether as a striking specimen or mass planting, Purple Flame blue flag complements companions like swamp milkweed, cardinal flower, golden ragwort, marsh marigold, and summer sweet clethra.