Iris ensata 'Gold Bound' - White Japanese Iris, Bog Plant

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.