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Zigzag iris

How to identify Zigzag iris (Iris brevicaulis)

Zigzag iris, also known as Leafy blue flag

Zigzag iris is a perennial herb notable for its low-growing habit and distinctive flowering structure. From its horizontal rhizomes, strap-like leaves emerge, forming a flattened, overlapping basal arrangement. The blooms appear atop a unique, zigzagging stalk up to 5 inches (approximately 12.7 cm) tall. The flowers boast a 6-parted morphology with 3 drooping 'falls' displaying a yellow and white crest, and 3 upright 'standards'. Their color ranges from bluish-purple to white. Flowering occurs in June, but not annually. The plant propagates by rhizome division and thrives in moist, acidic soil, tolerating full sun to partial shade.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Semi-evergreen

Quickly Identify Zigzag iris

1

Low-growing perennial herb with strap-like leaves from horizontal rhizomes.

2

Blooms atop a zigzagging stalk up to 5 inches (12.7 cm) tall, with bluish-purple to white flowers.

3

Distinctive 6-parted flowers with reflexed falls and upright standards, showcasing yellow and white crests.

4

Flowers large, deep bluish-purple, measuring 3-4 inches (7.6-10.2 cm) across, emitting a subtle fragrance.

5

Blooms appear in late spring to early summer, creating a visually striking and easily distinguishable display.

Zigzag iris

Detailed Traits of Zigzag iris

Flower Features

Zigzag iris flowers are large and deep bluish-purple, typically measuring 3-4 inches (7.6-10.2 cm) across. The falls, or lower petals, are reflexed with prominent yellow and white crests creating a striking contrast. The flowers appear in late spring to early summer, emitting a subtle fragrance that adds to their allure. These blooms are key identifiers, with their unique color and petal arrangement making them easily distinguishable for enthusiasts and botanists alike.

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Zigzag iris and Their Similar Plants

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Yellow flag vs. Zigzag iris: What's The Difference?
Yellow flag (Iris pseudacorus) is a flowering perennial plant native to Europe, Asia, and Africa. In temperate climates throughout the globe, yellow flag is cultivated as an ornamental plant. Yellow flag contains the toxin tannin and can irritate the skin. It's considered and invasive aquatic species.
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Blackberry lily (Iris domestica) is a herbaceous perennial that grows from 61 to 91 cm tall. The leaves of the plant grow in fans, similar to those of a gladiolus. It is also called a leopard lily due to its big orange flowers. The blooms are showy and will blossom from summer to early fall. It needs full sun and well-drained soil for optimal growth.
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Northern blue flag iris vs. Zigzag iris: What's The Difference?
The northern blue flag iris is considered a wetland species, which means it plants well near pond or lake edges, in water meadows, and near other water features. It can tolerate being in standing water that is less than 15 cm deep and can be completely submerged for a short time. The northern blue flag iris is a flowering herbaceous perennial plant that grows 10 to 79 cm high.
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Siberian iris vs. Zigzag iris: What's The Difference?
Siberian iris is an exceptional beauty with its bluish-purple flower petals and long, strappy green foliage. Historically, this flower symbolized the royal families and monarchs. Despite its elegance, this plant possesses low toxicity characteristics that plant enthusiasts should nevertheless be mindful of.
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Roast-beef plant vs. Zigzag iris: What's The Difference?
Roast-beef plant (Iris foetidissima), also known as stinking iris, is a perennial flowering plant of the iris family. Native to Europe, it got its common name for the smell of its leaves when crushed. Although the flower is pretty, the plant's red berry clusters are considered the most attractive aspect of the plant.
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Japanese Iris vs. Zigzag iris: What's The Difference?
The japanese Iris is a flowering perennial aquatic plant in purple, blue, and white. Native to parts of Asia, it is easy to care for and grows well in wet conditions. This plant thrives in ponds and water features in full sun to partial shade.
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Key Facts About Zigzag iris

Attributes of Zigzag iris
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Herb
Plant Height
0 mm to 30 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
2.5 cm to 8 cm
Flower Color
Purple
Blue
White
Lavender
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Scientific Classification of Zigzag iris

Family
Iris
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Genus
Irises
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Species
Zigzag iris (Iris brevicaulis)
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