Best grown in acidic, boggy soils in full sun. Also does surprisingly well in average garden soils that are kept consistently moist, however best performance in the border will generally occur with humusy, water-retentive soils that are never allowed to dry out. Tolerates light shade, particularly in the southern part of its growing range. Clumps will slowly spread by creeping rhizomes. Divide plants when overcrowding occurs.
Iris virginica, commonly called southern blue flag, is a native of the southern U.S., ranging primarily in wet areas of the coastal plain from Virginia to Florida and Texas. Iris virginica var. shrevei is a Missouri native wetland species occurring in wet meadows, marshes, swamps, river flood plains and ditches. 'Contraband Girl' is a robust, large-flowered cultivar of I. virginica, typically growing 2-4' tall (taller than the species) with sword-shaped, bright green leaves and lavender-blue irises with purple veining and yellow stripes on the falls.
No serious insect or disease problems.
Water gardens, bog gardens, pond or stream margins, or moist low spots. May also be grown in borders with humusy, water-retentive soils which are kept consistently moist.
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Missouri Botanical Garden
4344 Shaw Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63110(314) 577-5100 hours and admission
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Faust Park, 15193 Olive Blvd. Chesterfield, MO 63017(636) 530-0076 hours and admission
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Hwy. 100 & I-44 Gray Summit, MO 63039(636) 451-3512 hours and admission