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Dwarf Lake Iris, Iris lacustris
The Owen Sound Field Naturalists Collection, #3
The Dwarf Lake Iris (Iris lacustris) is a rare and exquisite wildflower found almost exclusively along the shorelines of the upper Great Lakes, making the Bruce Peninsula one of its most important strongholds worlwided and a point of genuine regional prid.e. Blooming in May with delicate violet-blue flowers barely a few centimetres tall, it carpets the thin soils of limestone alvars and lakeside forests in a breathtaking seasonal display that draws naturalists and photographers from across the province. The species is listed as Threatened under both the Ontario Endangered Species Act and the federal Species at Risk Act, and is imperilled by its extremely limited global range, slow reproduction, and sensitivity to habitat disturbance, including trampling by hikers, shoreline development, and encroachment by invasive species. Recovery efforts focus on protecting and monitoring known populations in Bruce Peninsula National Park and Fathom Five National Marine Park.
✨ 15% will be donated to conservation from all OSFN Collection original paintings ✨
In a collaboration to highlight the enjoyment of our backyard wildlife here in Ontario, the Owen Sound Field Naturalists and signature member of Artists for Conservation, Sarah McComb Turbitt, created a challenge to paint as many local species as she can during March 2026. 15% of original artworks, 35% of limited-edition prints, and 50% of artwork cards will be donated to OSFN. The Owen Sound Field Naturalists promotes and fosters learning about nature through their ongoing programs and sponsorships. They support a wide variety of activities, including a Young Naturalists Program, stewardship of many natural heritage properties in Grey Bruce Counties, interpretive signage, presentations by knowledgeable speakers and outdoor excursions with experienced leaders.
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Reference photography for inspiration was kindly provided by Mindy Buckton, thank you!
All original artwork is hand-signed by Sarah McComb-Turbitt and includes a certificate of authenticity and white cotton gloves for handling the painting upon delivery.