Yellow Flag Iris
Photo by Ray Curran
Additional Images
Common Name: Yellow flag iris
Scientific Name: Iris pseudacorus
Origin: Europe, Asia and Africa
Description
Yellow iris is an herbaceous perennial that can grow between 3-4 ft. The broad, lance-shaped leaves are stiff and erect. The yellow, showy flowers bloom from April to June.
Habitat
Yellow iris is found along the edges of lakes, ponds, rivers and streams. It grows well in freshwater wetlands and can tolerate high acidity.
Threat
This plant forms large, clonal populations that displace native species and offer nutrient-poor forage for wildlife.
Management
Caution should be used when hand-pulling this plant, as it can cause skin irritation. Digging up the root ball of individual plants can be effective. Native blue flag iris is a good landscaping alternative to this ornamental, wetland invader.
Regional Distribution
Common
WNY PRISM Priority
Tier 4 – Local Control
Invasive Species Priorities – Tier Chart
Pathways
Yellow flag iris was introduced to the U.S. as an ornamental plant and has been planted for erosion control. Yellow flag spreads through seeds and rhizome growth.
Yellow flag iris is a prohibited species in New York State – for more information on Prohibited and Regulated Species, visit http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/99141.html.
Native Alternatives
Blue flag iris (Iris versicolor)
Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
Canada lily (Lilium canadense)
Stiff goldenrod (Solidago rigida)
This map shows confirmed observations (green points) submitted to the NYS Invasive Species Database. Absence of data does not necessarily mean absence of the species at that site, but that it has not been reported there. For more information, please visit iMapInvasives.
