Are Louisiana irises hardy in Iowa?

Question:

Are Louisiana irises hardy in Iowa?

Answer:

Louisiana iris is the collective name for several species of iris which are native to Louisiana and boggy coastal areas from Florida to Texas.  They are prized for their colorful white, blue, red, or yellow flowers.  Louisiana irises are excellent plants for water or bog gardens. 

While Louisiana irises are native to the Gulf coast states, they are remarkably hardy.  They can be successfully grown in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 9.  Louisiana irises prefer moist, neutral to acid soils in partial shade to full sun.  Protected planting sites are best.  Water plants weekly during dry periods.  To insure winter survival in Zone 4, cover Louisiana irises with several inches of straw in late fall.