#21. Oregon Flag
Scientific Name:
Other Common Local Irises:
Iris missouriensis Western Blue Flag (Meadows & streams that are moist
in spring in the east Columbia Gorge.).
Iris pseudacorus Yellow Flag (Tall & yellow-along edges ofstreams
& ponds).
Family Name:
Iris Family
Habitat:
Moist forest openings, grasslands, and roadsides to middle
altitudes.
Characteristics:
1. Flowers large, showy, with 3 large petals and 3 smaller, thin petals.
Petals generally lavendar to purple with yellow and cream markings.
2. Leaves thick, somewhat grass-like but wider. The leaves are found at the
base of the plant.
3. The Oregon Flag attains a height of about one to two feet.
Uses or Importances:
1. The leaves were braided into snares for animal capture.
2. Pretty wildflower. Many have been domesticated & bred for unusual flower
color.
3. The boiled root broth was used as a beauty treatment (supposedly it cleared
the complexion) and also to treat bruises and sores.
[An additional photo of Oregon Flag-
(43 Kb)]
Paul Slichter