Variegated Sweet Flag Iris stands out in the spring garden with handsome cream-and-green striped foliage that looks striking even before the cheerful yellow flowers open in late spring and early summer. The bold variegation holds beautifully through the growing season, providing an architectural element that earns this iris a place even in years when it isn’t in bloom. Growing to a handsome 24 to 36 inches tall, it anchors a sunny border with upright structure and pairs well with ornamental grasses, blue-flowered companions, or other irises for a naturalistic early-season display. As a Great Lakes region native, it brings genuine ecological value and draws butterflies during its bloom period. It is reliably deer and rabbit resistant, tolerates black walnut, and adapts well to average garden soils including those that stay on the moist side. A classic iris for gardeners who want early color paired with season-long foliage interest.