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EXPLORE > PLANTS > ANGIOSPERMS
Iris tenax
This perennial herb is one of Oregon’s most widely photographed plants due to the colorful, elegant flowers which develop in late spring and early summer. The blooms will range in color from pink to yellow to white, although blue-purple is most commonly seen. The interior of the sepal will be white and bright yellow. When not in bloom, the plant can easily be mistaken for a grass as it grows in tight clumps with fibrous leaves. It makes an effective ground cover and rarely grows taller than 12 inches (30.5 cm).
The plant’s Latin name, Iris tenax, loosely translates to mean “tough iris.” This is a reference to the leaves which were often woven into snares and cords by the Tillamook and other indigenous people. The entire plant was also used in an elixir for treating nausea and vomiting. It apparently also has a beneficial effect on the treatment of depression. Parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested or improperly prepared by an expert.
Distribution
The herb likes sunny environments so typically thrives in meadows, fields, pastures or lightly wooded areas. It is found in western Oregon and southwestern Washington.
Conservation Status
Common.
Iris tenax
This perennial herb is one of Oregon’s most widely photographed plants due to the colorful, elegant flowers which develop in late spring and early summer. The blooms will range in color from pink to yellow to white, although blue-purple is most commonly seen. The interior of the sepal will be white and bright yellow. When not in bloom, the plant can easily be mistaken for a grass as it grows in tight clumps with fibrous leaves. It makes an effective ground cover and rarely grows taller than 12 inches (30.5 cm).
The plant’s Latin name, Iris tenax, loosely translates to mean “tough iris.” This is a reference to the leaves which were often woven into snares and cords by the Tillamook and other indigenous people. The entire plant was also used in an elixir for treating nausea and vomiting. It apparently also has a beneficial effect on the treatment of depression. Parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested or improperly prepared by an expert.
Distribution
The herb likes sunny environments so typically thrives in meadows, fields, pastures or lightly wooded areas. It is found in western Oregon and southwestern Washington.
Conservation Status
Common.
