Iris versicolor
Family: Iridaceae TOXIC
Herbaceous perennial. Native to the southern and eastern United
States. Water plant. This is an indigenous plant, with brilliant
violet-blue blossoms variegated with yellow and white, interspersed with
purple veins. Blue Flag rhizome was an honored remedy of the Native
Americans and then the Eclectics. It was employed in frequent and
minute dosage to simulate the lymphatic flow, to clear the skin, to treat
menstrual problems, fullness of the thyroid, rheumatism and herpes. The
rhizome is potentially toxic, and should only be used in prescribed
dosages under the care of a knowledgeable health care practitioner. Cultivation:
Extra care, but rewardingly possible. Light dependent germinator.
Press into surface of soil and keep moist. For best results, sow
in fall, midwinter or very early spring in outdoor nursery beds.
Seed has naturally low germination rate. Set out plants in moist
garden soil, at the edge of water or in shallow water, 6 inches apart.
Flowers from 2 to 3 feet tall. Note: This is a new seed source.
The seed was picked from the giant Blue Flags which thrive in the swamps
of South Georgia. It is big seed and quite virulent.
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