Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Iris ensata 'Variegata'
Variegated Japanese Iris
- Family
- Iridaceae
- Height
- 1.5 to 2.5 feet
- Width
- 1 to 1.5 feet
- Flower color
- Deep violet with purple hue; prominent yellow signals
- Foliage color
- Creamy white and green striped, sword-like leaves
- Bloom time
- Late spring to early summer
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Moderate to high
- Maintenance
- Low; remove faded flowers to encourage continuous blooming
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 4 to 9
- Wildlife
- Attracts butterflies
About this plant
Iris ensata 'Variegata' is a cultivar known for its broad, elegant flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The large, deep violet flowers feature overlapping petals in varying shades of purple, complemented by a vibrant yellow signal. This cultivar is also admired for its variegated foliage, consisting of green leaves edged with white.
Native to Japan and other regions of East Asia, Iris ensata thrives in temperate climates and prefers moist environments. Once the flowers fade, the plant's variegated foliage remains, providing structure and visual interest. Thriving in moist, fertile soils, it continues to display its beauty year after year, maintaining a refined presence in the landscape.
Works well in
Borders · Sun Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Rain Gardens
Companion plants
Bee balm · Yarrow · Ornamental grasses · Garden phlox · Black-eyed Susans · Daylilies
Design tip
The long summer show pairs well with plants that peak earlier, keeping one area interesting for months. Give it open sun and room to fill out, and repeat it in threes or fives so the planting reads as one sweep instead of scattered dots.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Center for Urban Horticulture.
