An alternative to invasive plants in our region
Species write-up and photos by Susan Norris-Davis of the Native Plant Initiative of Greater New Orleans
The dutch iris, Iris pseudacorus, has been planted as an ornamental due to its showy yellow blooms and dense green stands in the summer. However, these dense stands reduce diversity and can alter waterways. The roots and leaves are poisonous, both to wildlife and livestock. It is a Tier 1 invasive species in Louisiana deemed as “currently having severe or widespread negative impacts on wildlife or natural communities in Louisiana.” It is now found throughout the US.
The native choices that we have to replace this invasive with are:
- Iris brevicaulis, Zig-zag iris
- Iris fulva, Copper iris
- Iris giganticaerulea, Giant blue iris
- Iris Nelsonii, Abbeville iris
- Iris Hexagona, Dixie iris
