Rocky Mountain Iris (Iris missouriensis)

Family: Iridaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Iris missouriensis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). It is in flower from May to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist or wet soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The roasted seed is a coffee substitute. — The roasted seed is a coffee substitute.

Habitat & North American Range

Meadows and streamsides. Also found in pinewoods. Often found in apparently dry situations, but always where moisture is abundant until flowering time. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)