Iris germanica

hardy
Sun, part shade
ample to average water
fast growing
Green sword-like foliage - stays most of the year - some summer die-back - grown from rhizomes.
Plants work well used as informal borders and flowers are good for cutting.
Many hybrids - dwarf to 10" tall - 2 1/2 to 4'.
Large, showy orchid-like (white to red) flowers in all colors but red appear early spring
non-walk-on over 12", outdoor, in well drained soil.
used in accent, bedding, bold foliage, oriental settings.