Iris pseudacorus L. (Yellow flag iris)

Along the Western Trail, Yellow flag can be see in-between the path and the Huron River in the swampy area about half way to the bridge to Mitchell Field.

Yellow flag is a stunningly beautiful wildflower but in almost a dozen states, including Michigan, it is considered invasive and a prohibited aquatic species. Yellow flag stands can narrow a stream by as much as 10 inches a year and significantly alter wetlands to become drier affecting birds and other wildlife’s habitats.

This plant has been shown to reduce concentrations of heavy metals like copper and cadmium very effectively from contaminated water. It also can dramatically reduce several bacteria including E. coli and salmonella.

Photo by Stewart Nelson, 2018, ©️ some rights reserved

Photo by Stewart Nelson, 2018, ©️ some rights reserved

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