Iris verna L. - Spring Iris, Dwarf Iris
Family - Iridaceae
Stems:
N/A
Leaves:
N/A
Inflorescence:
N/A
Flowers:
Flowering - March - May.
Habitat - Sandills, pinelands, dry deciduous woods.
Origin - Native to North America.
Other information - This small but very attractive species can be found throughout much of Alabama but is apparently most frequent in the northern half of the state. The plant can be identified by its small blue flowers which have sepals that are NOT bearded. The leaves of this species are much longer and thinner than those of another small Iris, Iris cristata Ait.
Our plants belong to variety smalliana Fern. ex M.E. Edwards
The genus name Iris derives from the Greek "iri(s)" meaning "a rainbow, a kind of lily" referring to the colorful flowers of the many species.
The species epithet verna derives from the Latin "vern(a)" meaning "the spring" referring to the blooming season the plant.
Alabama Distribution:
Photographs taken off Lee Rd 54, Lee County, AL., 3-23-06.