Nurturing Natives- Dwarf Lake Iris

Did you know that this beautiful purple iris is endemic to the Great Lakes Region and also Michigan’s state wildflower? This flower thrives best in sandy dunes and helps reduce shoreline erosion through its long roots. Unfortunately, this stunning plant is threatened due to shoreline development, habitat destruction, and recreational activities. As of 2021, only 89 exist in the wild in Michigan, and 170 total are recorded in the Great Lakes.