Description
Iris ensata 'Variegata' is a Japanese iris with grey-green leaves striped creamy-white and deep purple flowers in June and July. It holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.
Variegated Japanese iris at a glance
| Botanical name |
Iris ensata 'Variegata' |
| Common name |
Variegated Japanese iris |
| Plant type |
Clump-forming iris; dies back in winter |
| Height and spread |
About 80 cm tall, 45–60 cm wide |
| Flowers |
Deep purple with a red sheen, June and July |
| Position |
Full sun or part shade |
| Soil |
Moist to wet, rich, acid soil |
| Pond depth |
None in winter – bog garden or damp soil |
| Hardiness |
RHS H6 – hardy in a very cold winter (-20 to -15°C) |
| Native to |
East Asia (not UK native) |
Can Iris ensata grow in a pond?
Not all year. It likes plenty of water in summer but does not tolerate waterlogged soil or standing water in winter. Grow it in a bog garden or damp border, or lift pots out of the pond in autumn.
What soil does it need?
Moist, rich, acid soil. It does poorly on chalk or alkaline soil, so use ericaceous compost in pots.
How to plant and care for it
Plant in spring or summer. Cut back after flowering and divide from midsummer to early autumn.
Is it poisonous?
Yes. Irises are harmful if eaten by people or pets, and the sap can irritate skin, 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.
