Iris pseudacorus (Yellow Flag Iris)

Iris pseudacorus, the Yellow Flag Iris, is the quintessential native European water iris — the most commonly sold marginal pond plant in Belgium and the Netherlands, and a beloved wildflower of Dutch and Belgian ditches, riverbanks, and wetlands. Its bold, upright sword-like foliage provides dramatic structural year-round interest, and in May and June it produces spectacular vivid yellow flowers with attractive brown veining that are a major nectar and pollen source for bumblebees, hoverflies, and other pollinators. Highly adaptable — it can be grown at the waterline in boggy margins or in water up to 30 cm deep — making it equally at home in a wildlife pond, a formal water feature, or a naturalistic garden pond. Fully hardy throughout Belgium and the Netherlands.

Plant in a basket or directly in pond substrate at the margin or in water up to 30 cm deep. Full sun preferred for best flowering. Grows vigorously — divide rhizomes every 2–3 years to maintain vigor and control spread. Remove spent flower heads to prevent prolific self-seeding. Cut back foliage in autumn if desired. Excellent for wildlife ponds — provides habitat for invertebrates and shelter for amphibians.