Considered quite hardy, Iris brevicaulis (Zigzag Iris) is a low-growing perennial with zig-zag stems bearing long, lax and arching, glossy bright green leaves, 10-20 in. long (25-50 cm). In early to mid-spring, blue-purple to pale blue-violet flowers bloom among the leaves. They are often hidden, as the stems are shorter than the leaves. Each flower features widely spreading and arching sepals with a yellow patch toward their base. Smaller than the sepals, the petals are spreading perpendicularly to slightly ascending. Commonly found growing in swamps and wet meadows of central North America, this small rhizomatous perennial performs well in regular garden soil too. Zigzag Iris is an excellent plant for partially shaded rock gardens, perennial borders, or woodland gardens. Great to use along ponds and streams.

• Grows up to 10-12 in. tall and wide (25-30 cm). It will spread by rhizomes to form colonies.
• Performs best in full sun to part shade in medium to wet, humus-rich, slightly acidic, well-drained soils.
• A welcomed addition to beds and borders, cottage gardens, rock gardens, bog gardens, rain gardens, or along ponds and streams.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Deer resistant.
• Propagate by clump division or by seed.
• All parts may cause discomfort if ingested. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.
• Native to central North America.