Species yellow flag
yellow flower with long, green, spear-like leaves, and fly sitting on it

yellow flag

Iris pseudacorus 'Variegata'

The yellow flag, scientifically known as Iris pseudacorus 'Variegata', is an evergreen, ornamental perennial grown for its beautiful variegated leaves and yellowish flowers that appear in late spring. It forms an attractive clump of glossy, yellow-and-green striped foliage. The flowers are large and cup-shaped with lightly frilled edges. Over time, this plant will quickly spread and form a large clump. Yellow flag prefers moist and boggy soil in locations that get full sun. It makes an eye-catching addition to flower beds, borders, along walkways, and in rain gardens. This hardy plant is also tolerant of wet conditions and is easily grown in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 9.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 9

Flowers:

Yellow Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow,white

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Yellow Flag (Iris pseudacorus 'Variegata') requires moist, well-draining soil and ample sunlight. During the growing season (April-October) it should be watered twice a week, applying approximately 1 inch of water each time. In the wintertime, it should be watered every 2 to 3 weeks, applying about ½ inch of water each time. During unusually hot and dry periods, the plant may require additional watering. Make sure to check the soil for moisture before watering to ensure that it needs it.

sunlight

Yellow flag (Iris pseudacorus 'Variegata') need full sun for optimum growth and bloom. For best results, provide 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Avoid midday shadows and late afternoon or early morning light, as this could cause the leaves to burn or the flowers to fade. Plant them in a bright spot where they will get plenty of sunshine in the morning and even some partial shade in hot, sunny afternoons for best results. Regular watering and fertilization will help promote a continuous bloom and lush green foliage.

pruning

Yellow Flag Iris needs to be pruned twice a year, in spring and autumn. In spring remove any dead, diseased or damaged stems and foliage and tidy up the foliage around the base. In autumn, cut back about 1 third of the foliage to ground level, to encourage new growth. Avoid over pruning as this will reduce flower production.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Yellow flag typically starts flowering in May.

Hardiness Map