- Courtesy of NAtional Park Service
- Douglas iris flower
The Douglas iris, also called the Pacific Coast iris, is one of three species of the genus Iris native to the west coast of North America. It is a fast growing, drought tolerant perennial plant that has purple flowers in early spring. The flowers attract insects and hummingbirds. This iris species requires little maintenance and naturalizes easily making it a sought after plant to use in a native plant garden. It was widely used by Native Americans as food, medicine, and a source of fibers for rope.
Facts and Features
- Geographic Distribution
Coastal ranges from Santa Barbara County north into mid-Oregon. Commonly planted in Southern California native plant gardens.
- Amazing Facts
The Douglas iris was first collected near Monterey, California by the Scottish botanist and explorer David Douglas who also discovered and gave his name to the Douglas fir.
- At the Aquarium
The Douglas iris is illustrated on The Wave's ceramic mural, Rios de la Vida (Rivers of Life). The fountain, mural, and accompanying graphics illustrate the story of our Los Angeles and San Gabriel Rivers. Although not on exhibit in the Aquarium, this flowering plant is included in this animal database to expand on the information touched on in The Wave fountain exhibit.