Iris cristata, commonly called dwarf crested iris, is a low-growing, rapidly spreading plant that typically grows to 3-6” tall. It features pale blue, lilac or lavender iris flowers with gold crests on the falls. Flowers are borne on very short stems, often appearing nearly stemless. Narrow, sword-shaped, yellowish-green to medium green leaves (to 6” long) arise from a network of branching rhizomes. Spreads quickly and forms dense colonies in optimum growing conditions. It typically occurs on rocky, wooded slopes, on bluffs and along streams. Poisonous (low level) if ingested for humans, cats, dogs and horses. Can cause contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals.