Leopard Flower
Iris domestica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Leopard Flower is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 25 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Leopard flower produces striking orange blooms with dark red spots during summer months, followed by decorative seed pods. This clumping perennial forms neat, sword-like foliage that adds vertical interest to garden beds.
In an HOA neighborhood
Leopard Flower is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The bright summer flowers attract bees and butterflies for nectar. The seeds provide food for birds in fall and winter.
Common questions
- How much sun does Leopard Flower need?
- Leopard Flower grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Leopard Flower bloom?
- Leopard Flower blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Leopard Flower native?
- Leopard Flower (Iris domestica) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 25 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Leopard Flower toxic to dogs?
- Yes. Leopard Flower is listed as toxic to dogs by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Leopard Flower toxic to cats?
- Yes. Leopard Flower is listed as toxic to cats by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your cat has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- What pollinators does Leopard Flower attract?
- Leopard Flower draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Leopard Flower HOA-friendly?
- Leopard Flower is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like Leopard Flower and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.
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