Iris tenax is a semi-evergreen species of Iris native to southwestern Washington and northwestern Oregon. It is known as the tough-leaved iris or Oregon iris. It occurs along roadsides and in grasslands and forest openings at low to middle elevations. One subspecies is also known from northern California.
Like most irises, it has large and showy flowers. The flowers bloom in mid to late spring and are usually lavender-blue to purple, but blooms in white, yellow, pink, and orchid shades are known to sometimes occur.
In the native garden, Oregon iris can grow large and reproduces easily, especially in favorable conditions. It tolerates winter pruning to refresh old leaves, and benefits from an occasional spring cleaning out of old vegetation.
