Audubon® Copper Iris

Not one to follow the crowd? Copper Iris isn’t, either. This intriguing Spirit offers a decidedly different color in wildflowers. When spring slips into summer, it hoists its odd but beautiful brick-red to rusty orange flowers in the air. They’re unlike anything you’ve seen! When they bloom, Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds will soon be over to compliment you on your purchase. They love to sip the sweet nectar of Copper Iris, and warring factions will fight over them. Ideal in a rain garden or at the edge of a pond or other water feature, but suitable for irrigated beds and borders as well.

A water- and heat-loving Spirit, Copper Iris has established itself most extensively in Louisiana, in the Mississippi River Valley. Its natural range then stretches up the Mississippi as far as southern Illinois, wherever it can find constantly moist soil. It will grow in up to six inches of standing water. Copper Iris is one of five species used in the breeding of the popular “Louisiana” Irises. These gorgeous Irises come in a rainbow of colors. Copper Iris adds the genes for its special orange-red color to the mix.

Although it’s primarily a plant of the Deep South, Copper Iris is surprisingly hardy, and it can survive winter temperatures to 20 below zero, at least. It can be grown as far north as southern Minnesota.

We do the hard part. Our trees and plants are grown and cared for by only the best, local growers for years before they find their forever home in your landscape. Bower & Branch is known for having hard-to-find, substantial sizes and selection. The quality of our trees and plants are consistent in health and vigor—always ready for immediate impact in your garden and instant curb appeal. We believe in empowering homeowners with the truth about strong, healthy and structurally sound plants that are grown to perform in the ground after they leave the nursery for home delivery, always fresh inventory from the grower

Audubon is devoted to protecting birds and the places they need, while Bower & Branch is devoted to the growth of true native trees and plants–no cultivars or hybrids. Together, we strive to unite communities in conservation and inspire individuals to cultivate a better world for birds starting in their own backyards, balconies, or patios. By guiding and recommending trees and plants truly native and beneficial to your region, we can really start to make a difference.

What is the definition of Native?

“In the United States, a native plant is defined as one that was naturally found in a particular area before European colonization. Native plants are the foundation of a region’s biodiversity, providing essential food sources and shelter for birds, especially those threatened by the changing climate. Since native plants are adapted to local precipitation and soil conditions, they generally require less upkeep, therefore helping the environment and saving you time, water, and money.” – The National Audubon Society

Learn how you can help birds in your home and community through Audubon’s Plants for Birds program.

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