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Rocky Mountain Iris

Iris missouriensis

Last reviewed: June 2026

Rocky Mountain Iris (Iris missouriensis)
Photo: (c) Nick Block, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Nick Block

Rocky Mountain Iris is toxic to dogs and cats.

Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (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

6"–24" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

AZ, CA, CO, ID and 9 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies

Rocky Mountain iris is a native perennial with elegant blue to purple flowers that bloom from May through July. This compact iris grows 6-24 inches tall with narrow, upright foliage that creates a tidy clump in the garden.

In an HOA neighborhood

Rocky Mountain Iris 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 showy flowers attract bees and butterflies during the summer blooming period. This native iris provides important nectar sources for pollinators in late spring and early summer.

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 Rocky Mountain Iris and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.