Iris versicolor ‘Purple Flame’

I love Blue Flag native iris and not much improves on it but a little sparkle to the foliage. Leaves emerge in spring burgundy, making a dramatic statement. Flag will grow almost anywhere, dry shade, full sun, in a pot but they really love a wet place — even standing water. 

Take advantage of the purple leaves and boggy spot to mix with spring bulbs like snow drop and jonquils — they’ll both take water logged soil too — and the color combo is awesome. 

When the weather warms up, the foliage turns green and the blue flag flowers pop on top of the plant.