Beautiful Iris on Refuge
Virginia iris (Iris virginica) is a native wildflower that occurs in the wetlands of Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge. It just started to bloom in front of the visitor center and along the Scuppernong Interpretive Boardwalk. This native wildflower is related to the iris people use around their houses, but the ornamental iris species are from Asia. The flowers are pollinated by bumblebees. Iris stands provide good cover for fish and amphibians. Virginia iris is also in bloom on Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge.