Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Iris ensata 'Electric Rays'
Electric Rays Japanese Iris

- Family
- Iridaceae
- Height
- 30-36 inches tall
- Width
- 18-24 inches wide
- Flower color
- Deep violet with white rays and yellow accents near the throat
- Foliage color
- Green, sword-shaped leaves
- Bloom time
- Early to midsummer
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- High
- Maintenance
- Moderate
- Growing zone
- USDA Zones 4-9
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees and other pollinators
About this plant
Iris ensata 'Electric Rays' brings a bold, electrifying display to the garden with its rich, deep purple petals, each marked by intricate white veining that radiates from the center. Blooming in early to mid-summer, this Japanese iris produces large, flat blooms with a delicate ruffled edge, creating a standout presence in moist, sunny to partly shaded spots. The central golden-yellow signal contrasts vividly against the intense purple, adding even more dimension to the dramatic display.
Originating as part of the revered Japanese iris breeding tradition, 'Electric Rays' was developed for both beauty and resilience, with an affinity for damp, boggy conditions that make it a perfect choice for pond edges or rain gardens. Its lush, sword-like foliage forms a backdrop that keeps the garden interesting even after flowering, while the vibrant blooms offer an exotic touch that enhances borders, water gardens, and floral arrangements alike.
Works well in
Borders · Cottage Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Rain Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens
Companion plants
Lungworts · Daylilies · Japanese anemones · Bleeding hearts · Catmint · Heucheras
Design tip
Summer flowers carry the middle of the season, so place it where the bed needs color once spring bulbs fade. Because it is easy about light, use it to carry a planting from a sunny end of the bed into the shadier side.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen in the perennial border at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
