Texas, and especially the southern Frio River, lie outside of the general range of Iris pseudacorus . Only a few scattered records have previously been made in Texas and none compare to the infestation in the Frio River. The Frio River's water originates from a deep artesian source and remains cool year round. Although recorded from over 40 states, yellow iris is not equally distributed or problematic throughout. Yellow iris is widespread in the northeastern United States, where it has been found in the wild for close to 140 years.
Plants grow vigorously in water or wet soil.
It is still a horticultural favorite and often escapes cultivation to spread locally along shorelines, stream flats, and into fresh and brackish marshes. Iris pseudacorus may stand up to several feet tall. The rhizomes spread radially to produce large clonal populations. Iris pseudacorus often grows to such an extent that it is considered invasive and problematic. This plant is listed as an injurious weed in Nevada.