Iris pseudacorus 'Variegata' - Variegated Yellow Flag, Pond Marginal P

Iris pseudacorus 'Variegata', the variegated yellow flag, is a form of the native yellow flag iris that holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit. In spring its sword-shaped leaves are striped cream and green, fading to green by summer. In May and June it carries yellow flowers with brown veins.

'Variegata' at a glance

Botanical name	Iris pseudacorus 'Variegata'
Common name	Variegated yellow flag
Plant type	Clump-forming iris; dies back in winter
Height and spread	About 90 cm–1.2 m tall, 50–100 cm wide
Flowers	Yellow, up to 10 cm across, with brown veins, May and June
Position	Full sun
Soil	Wet clay, loam or sand; acid to neutral
Pond depth	Wet mud or a pond shelf about 12–26 cm deep (Waterside Nursery)
Hardiness	RHS H7 – very hardy (below -20°C)
Native to	Variegated form of the UK native yellow flag

Where to plant it

A sunny pond shelf or wet mud at the margin
The edges of larger garden and wildlife ponds
In a basket in smaller ponds

Does it spread?

It can. The RHS says it can become a nuisance if not managed, and yellow flag can take over a small pond, so grow it in a basket. Deadhead before seed falls, as seedlings will not have striped leaves.

Is it good for wildlife?

Yes. It is on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list, and Waterside Nursery says it attracts bees, butterflies, hoverflies and dragonflies. Koi and ducks may graze it.

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.