Iris leaved rush enjoys full sun or shade and ample water to grow to heights of about 2? to 3?.  Found growing naturally near rivers and in moist mountain meadows  Juncus xiphioides leaves are remarkably similar to the foliage of an iris plant.    Iris leaved rush blooms May through October  sending up long stalks of tiny star-shaped flowers.   The chocolate brown  textured inflorescences stay on to provide rich autumn color.  Juncus xiphioides spreads through underground rhizomes  making it a good candidate for erosion control in wet places.  Try edging a pond or streambed for backyard plantings; additionally iris leaved rush takes well to growing in containers  a graceful vertical element on the patio.  This native stays evergreen unless stressed by drought  in which case it may drop its leaves as it recovers.  Remember  give it plenty of water!