Yellow Iris (Iris pseudacorus) is a native perennial herbaceous plant species found throughout the United Kingdom, belonging to the Iridaceae family. It is commonly known as the Yellow Flag Iris or simply Flag Iris. This striking plant is often found in wetland habitats, including marshes, riverbanks, ponds, and ditches across the UK.

Yellow Iris thrives in nutrient-rich, moist soils, often favouring areas with standing water or consistently damp conditions. It is highly adaptable and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade, making it a dominant species in wetland ecosystems.

Predators of Yellow Iris include herbivores such as deer and rabbits, which may feed on its foliage. However, its toxic and bitter-tasting leaves often deter extensive browsing. In addition, wetland birds may use the dense foliage as cover for nesting.

As a perennial plant, Yellow Iris can live for several years, forming dense clumps of sword-shaped leaves and producing vibrant yellow flowers with characteristic “flags” or petals in late spring to early summer. It reproduces via seeds and can also spread through rhizomes, allowing it to form expansive colonies over time.

Culturally, Yellow Iris is sometimes associated with myths and legends, though it does not hold significant symbolic or traditional references in the UK. However, it is valued for its ornamental qualities and is often planted in water gardens and wetland restoration projects.

An interesting fact about Yellow Iris is its ecological importance in wetland habitats, where it provides habitat and food for various species of insects, birds, and other wildlife. Despite its beauty, it can be invasive in some areas, outcompeting native vegetation and altering ecosystem dynamics.