Tough-leaved iris facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Tough-leaved iris |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Iris
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| Species: |
tenax
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Iris tenax is a beautiful wild flower. It is often called the tough-leaved iris or Oregon iris. Some people also call it a flag. This plant is a type of Iris.
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Where Does the Oregon Iris Grow?
The Oregon iris grows naturally in a few places. You can find it in southwestern Washington. It also grows in western Oregon and northwestern California. This plant likes to grow along roadsides. It also thrives in grasslands and open forest areas. You can spot it from low to middle elevations.
Special Types of Oregon Iris
A special kind of Iris tenax is called Iris tenax ssp. klamathensis. This type only grows in one specific area. It is found only in northern California. This area is known as the Klamath Mountains. When a plant or animal only lives in one place, it is called endemic.
What Does the Oregon Iris Look Like?
Like many irises, Iris tenax has large and colorful flowers. These flowers usually bloom in the middle to late spring. Their colors are often lavender-blue or purple. But sometimes, you might see them in white, yellow, pink, or even orchid shades!
Leaves and Roots
The leaves of the Oregon iris are very thin. They are usually less than 5 millimeters wide. Because of their slender shape, people sometimes mistake the plant for a type of grass. This happens especially when it is not blooming.
The plant has special underground stems called rhizomes. These rhizomes spread slowly. This makes the plant grow in a tight clump.
Why is it Called "Tenax"?
The scientific name tenax means "tough" or "strong." This name refers to the plant's leaves. They are very strong and fibrous. Long ago, native peoples used these tough leaves. They braided them to make snares and other types of rope.
