Hansen's Northwest Native Plant Database

Iris purdyi (Purdyi’s Iris)

While many irises are common and widespread, Iris purdyi has a limited natural habitat.

It is primarily found along the coastal region of northern California and the lowest coastal regions of southern Oregon.

It is a grass iris, which prefers good drainage and part to full sun situations.

Purdyi also prefers warmer USDA hardiness zones 8-9, so it is not recommended for colder climates.

The flower structure is very open and flat and the blooms are white with a yellow stripe and small touches of lavender. The darker purplish veins are generally fine and not as pronounced as some of the others.

It is a good iris for the sunny rock garden or the warm grassy meadow.

For a short comparison of northwest native iris, click here.

Photo below by David Hofmann.