Irises, both true Iris and those with iris in the common name, are not only easy on the eyes, but also easy to grow in the Florida garden. North Florida gardeners have many varieties of iris to choose from, including those that prefer wet sites, drought-tolerant species, intricate hybrids, and native species.

What zones do iris grow in?

They're hardy in zones 5 to 9, producing 2- to 3-foot-tall flower stalks with a range of flower colors from white to lavender. Foliage is ribbed and upright. Japanese irises have the largest flowers of the iris species. Once the plant has formed a large clump, it can be divided.

Are iris native to Florida?

Native to Florida, blue flag irises can be found in marshy areas throughout Florida. They do grow in standing water, but will tolerate normal garden soils with regular watering. This clump-forming perennial has light-green foliage and grows two to four feet tall.