Iris nelsonii (Nelson's Iris)

SunZone: 6b-10 48" tall Origin: USA

This unusual southern US native was discovered growing in a swamp in Vermilion Parish, LA, near the town of Abbeville. Although it is thought to have originated as a menage-a-trois between I. fulva, I. brevicaulis, and I. giganticaerulea, it was published as a new species in 1966. I. nelsonii makes a vigorous clump of narrow green foliage, topped in early May with 2" cinnamon-lavender flowers. Either moist soil or up to 4" of standing water suit the plant just fine. Pot size: 24 fl. oz (709.77 ml)