General Culture:

Easily grown in average, medium to wet soils in full sun to part shade. Loves acidic, saturated, moisture-retentive soils. Thrives in standing water (up to 12” deep) where it prefers full sun and will naturalize easily to form large colonies. Grow in containers in water gardens. Although it prefers constant moisture, it grows surprisingly well in average garden soils, albeit less vigorously, particularly if given some light afternoon shade. Soils should never be allowed to dry out, however. Remove seed pods to prevent any unwanted self-seeding.

Noteworthy Characteristics:

‘Sun Cascade’ is a double flowered yellow flag cultivar that grows in expanding clumps to 2-4’ (occasionally to 5’) tall. Plant height is directly proportional to the amount of soil moisture. This is a rhizomatous perennial iris. Double yellow irises (2-5” across) with brown markings on the center of the falls bloom on rigid, upright scapes in spring. Each double flower typically has 6-9 falls. Sword-shaped, linear green leaves. Flowers give way to seed capsules that are sometimes used in dried flower arrangements. Species’ roots have been used in the past for a variety of purposes including medical treatments, dyes and inks, and snuff. Species’ seeds have been used as a coffee substitute (no caffeine however).

Problems:

No serious insect or disease problems.

Uses:

Moist boggy areas of water gardens including standing water. Margins of streams and ponds. Borders as long as soil moisture requirements can be met.

© Missouri Botanical Garden, 2001-2010