The Story
Plant Bio
A clump-forming, rhizomatous perennial native to eastern North America, typically found in marshes, swamps, and wet meadows. It features sword-like green leaves and showy flowers in late spring to early summer.
A distinct cultivar of the native Blue Flag Iris, 'John Wood' is prized for its elegant, large white flowers marked with a prominent yellow signal and delicate violet-blue veining.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moist to wet soil
Humidity
Moderate to high
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Eastern North America
Toxicity
All parts are poisonous if ingested; can cause skin irritation.
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist during growing season.
- Transplant seedlings when they reach 4-6 inches tall, typically in early spring or fall.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years to promote healthy growth.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds, especially in winter.
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
Pro Tip
Plant in well-drained soil with full sun for prolific blooms and healthy roots.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 💧
- Provide full sun exposure for optimal flowering 🌞
- Divide clumps in early spring or fall to rejuvenate plants 🌱
- Apply mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature 🌿
- Use organic compost to enrich the soil annually
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t plant in poorly drained areas to prevent soggy roots ❌
- Refrain from disturbing plants during peak bloom ❌
- Never neglect to remove dead or damaged leaves to prevent disease ❌
- Avoid using chemical fertilizers excessively to prevent soil imbalance ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Harlequin Blueflag 'John Wood' questions
What zones can Harlequin Blueflag 'John Wood' grow in?
Harlequin Blueflag 'John Wood' is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Harlequin Blueflag 'John Wood' deer resistant?
Yes — Harlequin Blueflag 'John Wood' is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Harlequin Blueflag 'John Wood' bloom?
Harlequin Blueflag 'John Wood' typically blooms in late spring to early summer through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Harlequin Blueflag 'John Wood' need full sun?
Harlequin Blueflag 'John Wood' does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Iris to compare
German Iris Bearded Iris
Iris x germanica 'Mix'
Celebration Song Iris
Iris tenuissima 'Celebration Song'
Poem of Ecstasy German Iris
Iris x germanica 'Poem Of Ecstasy'
Siberian Iris 'Paprikash'
Iris x hybrida 'Paprikash'
Dutch Iris Mix
Iris x hollandica 'Mix'
Baboon Bottom Bearded Iris
Iris x germanica 'Baboon Bottom Bearded'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Harlequin Blueflag 'John Wood' with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.