Description
Copper Iris (Iris fulva), also called Red Iris, is a bold native perennial that brings rich copper-red to deep red blooms to wet landscapes. Flowering from late spring into early summer, its unique color stands out compared to the more common blues and purples of other irises.
It typically grows around 2–3 feet tall, with upright, sword-like green leaves that stay attractive through the season and can even persist into winter in consistently moist conditions. The flowers have a classic iris shape and are especially attractive to hummingbirds and bees.
Copper Iris thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist to wet soils. It can even handle shallow standing water, making it a great choice for rain gardens, pond edges, and streambanks. It spreads slowly by rhizomes, forming nice clumps without becoming aggressive.
Low-maintenance and reliable, it’s a great way to add color and structure to wet areas while supporting pollinators.
It pairs well with other water-loving natives like Northern Blue Flag (Iris versicolor), Southern Blue Flag (Iris virginica), Blue Lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica), and Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) for a layered, natural look in wet plantings.
