The dwarf crested iris, Iris cristata, is the most common of the two crested irises found in North America. At full maturity they seldom reach over five inches in height, with small sword shaped leaves and a lavender-colored flower that appears almost stemless as it emerges in early spring. The blooms are highly attractive to bees and hummingbirds during its short blooming period. The dwarf iris emerges in April, just after Glenstone's meadows are typically burned or cut. Because of their size, they are soon eclipsed by taller native species, and they seem to disappear until next spring. Look along the edges of Glenstone's many paths, especially from the Pavilions entry to the Café to catch a glimpse of them. When planting the Pavilions green roof, Glenstone initially planted Iris cristata ‘Powder Blue Giant’, which has a paler blue color than usual members of this species.

–Tim Curley