Wild Iris

Iris setosa
Iridaceae/Iris Family

Wild Iris grow in bogs, meadows, and shores of lakes and streams. It grows up to 2' tall and has thing, sword-like leaves that rise from the base and a thick round flower stalk. The 3 large blue-purple petals are actually sepals that aid in attracting pollinators. The true petals are small and located toward the center of the flower. Both the seeds are roots are poisonous.

Iris is from Latin meaning "rainbow" alluding to the different colors of the flowers. The species setosa means "bristly", perhaps referring to the sharp petal tips.