One of 11 species in the group collectively called Pacific Coast iris, Iris tenex, or tough-leaf iris, will be the jewel of your garden during its May bloom. Both the species, and the many cultivars available, sport flowers in a variety of colors including lavender, dark purple, pink, yellow, gold and white, as well as multi-colored. The flowers often have ruffles and intricate veining. Iris tenex grows in tidy clumps 18" tall, with narrow grass-like leaves. Plant them in sun to partial shade for the most prolific flowers. They like slightly moist to dry soil and are intolerant of poor drainage or too much summer water. Their blooms are visited by bees, butterflies and hummingbirds.

In early spring, these beautiful flowers can be found blooming in the Buck Lake Native Plant Garden in the border anchored by the huge Douglas fir.

See the links below for more information on Pacific coast iris.