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Description
Iris Lacustris, also known as Dwarf Lake Iris, is a small perennial flowering plant native to North America. It belongs to the Iridaceae family and is one of the few irises that grow in wetlands. It is a protected species in some states due to its rarity and vulnerability to habitat loss.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Iris |
Appearance
Iris Lacustris has narrow, sword-shaped leaves that grow up to 6 inches long. Its flowers are blue to violet with yellow or white signals and appear in late spring to early summer. The flowers are held on short stems above the leaves and are about 2 inches in diameter. The plant grows up to 8 inches tall and forms small clumps.
Care Guide
Iris Lacustris requires moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun exposure. It is tolerant of wet soil and can thrive in boggy areas. Water the plant regularly and avoid letting the soil dry out completely. Fertilize the plant in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Use a soil mix that is rich in organic matter. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Iris Lacustris is susceptible to fungal diseases such as crown rot and leaf spot. It can also be affected by pests such as aphids and thrips. To prevent diseases, avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation around the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests.
Habitat
Iris Lacustris is found in wetlands, bogs, and fens in the Great Lakes region of North America. It grows in sandy or peaty soils and is often found near lakeshores and riverbanks. The plant is also grown in gardens as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Iris Lacustris tolerate full sun?
A: Yes, Iris Lacustris can tolerate full sun exposure but prefers partial shade.
Q: How often should I water Iris Lacustris?
A: Water the plant regularly and avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
Q: What kind of soil does Iris Lacustris prefer?
A: Iris Lacustris prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Iris Lacustris?
A: Iris Lacustris is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Related Plants
- Iris versicolor
- Iris setosa
- Iris virginica
- Iris pseudacorus
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Iris lacustris. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c514
- North American Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Iris lacustris. Retrieved from https://nanps.org/index.php/growers-resources/native-plant-factsheets/item/iris-lacustris
- United States Department of Agriculture. (n.d.). USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. Retrieved from https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/PHZMWeb/
