Description
Iris ensata 'Gold Bound' (sometimes sold as 'Goldbound') is a Japanese iris introduced around 1885. In summer it opens large, double, white flowers, 13–19 cm across, with a gold signal at the base of each fall, above narrow, slightly grey-green leaves.
'Gold Bound' at a glance
| Botanical name |
Iris ensata 'Gold Bound' |
| Common name |
Japanese iris |
| Plant type |
Clump-forming iris; dies back in winter |
| Height and spread |
About 90 cm tall in flower, about 50 cm wide |
| Flowers |
Large, double, white with a gold signal, in summer |
| Position |
Full sun or part shade; flowers best in sun |
| Soil |
Moist, humus-rich, acid to neutral soil |
| Pond depth |
None – pond or stream edge, not standing water |
| Hardiness |
RHS H6 – hardy in a very cold winter (-20 to -15°C) |
| Native to |
Garden form of the Japanese iris (not UK native) |
Can 'Gold Bound' grow in a pond?
Not as a submerged plant. The RHS recommends pond and stream edges or borders that stay moist. One nursery grows it in pots standing in water, but no source gives a safe depth, so keep the crown above the water line.
How to plant and care for it
Plant in moist, humus-rich, acid to neutral soil in a sheltered spot; it flowers best in full sun. It will not suit chalky or limey ground. Watch for slugs, snails, thrips and iris sawfly.
Is it poisonous?
Yes. Irises are harmful if eaten by people or pets, so wear gloves when handling it.
Which size should I buy?
Bare-root plants (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive without a pot or compost and are the most economical way to plant a group. Potted plants (9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive growing in our peat-free compost and give a faster display. Packs of 3 come in 7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre bare-root sizes and cost less per plant. The 2x Pot & Compost option is two plants supplied with pots and compost.
