Blue Flag

Blue Flag

This large genus consists of about 300 species of perennials found mainly in northern temperate regions. Most species are in cultivation; they range from rock-garden plants to aquatics. Iris flowers are the origin of the scepter and the fleur-de-lys; the three inner petals represent faith, wisdom, and valor. The genus is named after Iris, the Greek goddess of the rainbow. The use of dried iris root, known as "orris", was recorded in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, and remains important in perfumery. Orris contains volatile oil, consisting partly or irone; the oil gives a violet scent that intensifies as the dried rhizome ages. Several different species are grown as sources of orris, including I. pallida (Dalmation iris). Some authorities maintain that I. germanica var. florentina, which is common near Florence, is a separate species (I.florentina), while others regard it as the cultivar 'Florentina". Iris versicolor (blue flag) was one of the most widely used medicinal plants among native N Americans; its importance to the Creek people was such that they grew it near their villages. Blue flag was listed in the U. S. Pharmacopoeia (1820-95) as an emetic and purgative, but it has a far wider range of medicinal applications today.

Wetland perennial with a branched, creeping rhizome and sword-shaped leaves, 35-60cm (14-24in) long. Purple to violet-blue, white-veined flowers, 6-8cm (2½-3in) across, bloom in groups of 4-6 in summer.

Common Name:	Blue Flag
Other Names:	Wild Iris
Botanical Name:	Iris versicolor
Genus:	Iris
Family:	Iridaceae
Cultivation:	Well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in sun (I. germanica var. florentina); rich, moist to wet, acid soil or shallow water in sun (I. versicolor).
Propagation:	By seed sown in autumn or spring; by division or offsets in summer. Cultivars may not come true from seed.
Harvest:	Rhizomes are lifted in the late summer and early autumn, and dried for use in decoctions, liquid extracts, and powders.
Native Location:	Northeastern N America
Height:	50cm-1m (20in-3ft)
Width:	Indefinite
Variations:	Kermesina Has Plum colored flowers.
Hardiness:	Z3-8
Parts Used:	Rhizomes
Properties:	An acrid, slightly aromatic, alterative herb that stimulates the liver and gall-bladder, reduces inflammation, increases rates of perspiration and salivation, and acts as a diuretic and laxative.
Medicinal Uses:	Internally for psoriasis, acne, herpes, migraine due to liver dysfunction, arthritis, fibroids, swollen glands, pelvic inflammatory disease, and septicemia. Fresh rhizome causes nausea and diarrhea. Not givento pregnant women. Externally for skin diseases, rheumatism, and infected wounds. Combines well with Phytolacca armericana (See, Indian poke), Rumex crispus (See, curled dock), Stillingia sylvatica (See, queen's delight), or Trifolium pratense (See, red clover), for skin disease.
Warning:	All parts of Iris species, especially rhizomes, are harmful if eaten. Skin irritant and allergen.
Bibliography:	Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown. Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited. pg. 244