Iris ensata 'Variegata' is a Japanese iris distinguished by its green leaves streaked with creamy white variegation and rich violet blue blooms. Its foliage offers season long interest, even when not in flower, making it a dynamic accent in garden areas.
Height & Spread: 28 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Early to midsummer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part sun
Soil Preference: Moist, acidic, fertile soil; tolerates clay and thrives in boggy areas
Watering Needs: High; prefers consistent moisture and benefits from wetland or water garden placement
Deer Resistance: Moderate
Native Status
Not native to North America. This selection is derived from species native to Japan and has become a staple in ornamental wetland and pondside designs around the world.
Wildlife & Insects
Butterflies
- Attracts Painted Ladies and Red Admirals with its vivid flowers and generous nectar supply.
Bees
- Visited by native bumblebees and small carpenter bees for pollen and nectar, particularly in warm sunny conditions.
Beneficial Insects
- Provides floral resources for syrphid flies and other predatory insects that aid in garden pest control.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Allow 18 - 24 in between plants to enable clump expansion and visual separation of their dramatic foliage.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for highlighting edges of ponds, rain gardens, and boggy borders where their foliage can shine throughout the season and flowers create a dramatic focal point.
Companion Plants
- Ligularia dentata (Leopard Plant) - Large bold leaves and golden orange blooms pair well with the variegated foliage of this iris.
- Astilbe chinensis (Chinese Astilbe) - Adds soft, feathery texture and tolerates the same moist, shaded or partly sunny conditions.
- Primula japonica (Japanese Primrose) - Offers early color in damp soils and complements the iris with its layered flowering tiers.
- Hosta 'Patriot' - Contrasts beautifully with the iris foliage and thrives in similar light and soil conditions.
- Iris ensata 'Lion King' - Dramatic, ruffled blooms extend the flowering palette while sharing the same growing needs.