Iris setosa Pallas ex Link
EYE-ris (alt. EYE-riss)  seh-TOE-sa alt. set-OH-suh)

Iridaceae (Iris Family)

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Definitions

* Note: The Iris looks like it escaped from someone’s garden. Iris is from the Latin word for “rainbow”. This could refer to the different colors found in the flowers. Irises are called “flags” because some of the flower parts hang out like banners. Setosa means “bristly” perhaps referring to the inner 3 petals of the flower. The variety found in our area is Iris setosa var. interior E. Anders.  Additional common names: siberian iris and beachhead iris.

* Stem: From short thick rhizome covered with remains of old leaves, 1 to 2 branches, to 30", thick and round.

* Flower: Bracts green or somewhat purple, large 2 1/2" to 4" across with 3 large outer parts (falls), various shades of blue with dark veins, purple or rarely white with lighter streaks, a white blotch at base, broad 3 inner petals, smaller and narrower, can be erect or arching. 2 rows of flat seeds form a bristly seed pod, large and divided into 3 sections.

* Leaves: Mostly basal, long, linear, flat, shaped like a sword, 1-1/2" wide, overlapping.

* Habitat: Meadows, shores of lakes and streams, subalpine areas, river banks, coastal mud flats.

* Uses: Some people use the root as a laxative and to reduce swelling. However overdoses cause diarrhea and vomiting. The Dena’ina chew part of the root for colds and sinus trouble. Can be used as a dye. Vereck describes the seeds being used as a beverage tasting like coffee. Iris served as a messenger for Hera and Zeus. Greeks planted Irises on female relatives’ graves to lead the women’s souls to the Elysian Fields. The Iris was the fleur-de-lis of the French monarchy. The Egyptians called the 3 outer floral parts courage, faith and wisdom.

* Caution: According to Hultén the plant is poisonous causing vomiting. According to Schofield people may experience skin rashes or other allergic reactions when handling the plant.