"iris giganticaerulea" is the most recognizable louisiana iris species. this gulf coast species is an extremely large blue native plant, found commonly in the city of new orleans. in the state of louisiana, the iris grows natively in freshwater marshes, swamps, and woody wetlands. yet only a few remaining native, wild-growing irises can be found in louisiana wetlands, located 20 to 30 miles north of new orleans. some of the species can be found growing natively along the coasts of texas and mississippi.