Northern Blue Flag

About Northern Blue Flag

Northern Blue Flag is a quintessential wetland beauty that brings elegance and vibrant color to the edges of ponds and marshes. This hardy perennial grows 2 to 3 feet tall, featuring narrow, arching, sword-like leaves that remain attractive throughout the growing season. In late spring to early summer, it produces stunning flowers of deep violet-blue, intricately veined with yellow and white at the base of the petals. These showy blossoms are a favorite of hummingbirds and larger bees, such as bumblebees, which are strong enough to push past the floral structures to reach the nectar. Native to the wetlands of the northeastern United States and Canada, it is perfectly adapted to growing in shallow water or consistently saturated soils. It thrives in full to partial sun and is an essential component of rain gardens, bioswales, and shoreline restoration projects. Its clump-forming habit and reliable performance make it a top choice for gardeners seeking a structural, water-loving plant with high ecological value.