Iris verna aka Dwarf Iris

Iris verna is a small perennial in the iris family. Common names include dwarf iris and dwarf violet iris. It comes from the eastern United States. Its range runs from New York south to Florida. It extends west to the Mississippi River. Wild plants grow in open woods and partly shaded forests. They often grow in poor, acid soil. The species is native across North Carolina's main regions.

Plants form upright clumps and spread from deeply buried rhizomes. These underground stems can produce colonies of flowering plants. The green leaves are narrow, straight, and shaped like swords. Their bases have red or purple tones. Leaves reach about 0.5–0.8 feet [0.15–0.25 metres] long. Some foliage can remain through winter. The leaves are narrower and straighter than those of Iris cristata. Unlike that species, dwarf iris lacks crested ridges on its sepals.

The flowers open in early spring, before new leaves grow. They rise on stalks about 0.17 feet [0.05 metres] tall. Blooms range from pale blue to deep blue or violet. A golden-yellow patch marks each flower. White blooms occur, but they are rare. The flowers have a strong scent and attract bees. Individual blooms measure about 0.08–0.25 feet [0.025–0.076 metres] across. The fruit is a capsule with three angles. Each angle has one ridge. The capsules sit almost hidden within the bases of the spathes. Fruits are present in fall.

Grow dwarf iris in acid soil that drains well. It accepts clay or loam and tolerates poor soil. It prefers moist ground but can handle some dry spells. Partial shade suits it, with protection from strong afternoon sun. The plant also grows in sunnier or more shaded sites. North Carolina State lists hardiness in USDA zones 6–8. Use it along native-garden borders or in groups. Its spreading growth also suits naturalized areas. Gardeners can raise it from seed or divide established plants.

This iris needs little upkeep and has few major problems. Slugs and snails may damage flowers and leaves. It is poisonous to people, cats, dogs, and horses. Cattle can also become ill after eating it. The roots and sap contain toxic compounds. The rhizomes hold the highest concentration. Poisoning may cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. The source rates its poison severity as low.