Iris ensata 'Variegata' - Variegated Japanese Iris, Bog Plant (RHS AGM

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.