This plant is also called Northern Blue Flag, Larger Blue Flag, Harlequin Blueflag, and Wild Iris. The name “flag” is from the middle English word “flagge,” meaning rush or reed. Iris flowers are said to symbolize power, with the three parts representing wisdom, faith and courage.

What is the difference between a iris and flag?

All irises (named the latin for ‘rainbow’ because they come in so many colours) have six petals. … Flag irises are types of non-bearded irises. Most common in gardens are the German bearded Irises (Iris germaninca). They have a fuzzy ‘beard’ on top of each of the falls.

What flower is called a flag?

Flag iris typically refers to several species of iris plant: Iris pseudacorus, the yellow flag iris. Iris versicolor, the larger blue flag iris. Iris prismatica, the slender blue flag iris.