Iris ensata 'Gold Bound' is a refined Japanese iris known for its elegant white petals accented with a golden signal flare at the base. Blooming in early to midsummer, it thrives in consistently moist soil and adds vertical drama to water gardens and rain borders. The swordlike foliage creates strong visual interest even when not in bloom.
Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Early to midsummer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Prefers acidic, rich, moist to wet soil
Watering Needs: High; requires consistent moisture especially during blooming
Deer Resistance: Generally resistant to deer browsing
Native Status
Originally native to Japan, Iris ensata cultivars have been cultivated for centuries and adapted widely to North American gardens, especially in moist and acidic soil conditions.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- The open flowers provide nectar for butterflies such as Eastern Tiger Swallowtail and Monarchs during the summer bloom period.
Bees
- Frequently visited by bumblebees and other long tongued bees attracted to the prominent signal patches.
Birds
- The foliage offers cover for small ground dwelling birds and amphibians in rain garden settings.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space plants 18 - 24 in apart to allow for clump expansion and maintain airflow in wetter soils.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for rain gardens, pond edges, or mixed borders with consistent moisture. Pairs well with other wet soil tolerant perennials.
Companion Plants
- Lobelia cardinalis (Cardinal Flower) - Red spires draw hummingbirds and bloom at the same time as the iris.
- Carex stricta (Tussock Sedge) - Clumping habit and preference for wet soils make it a natural pairing in boggy areas.
- Astilbe chinensis 'Pumila' - Offers feathery lavender pink plumes and thrives in similarly moist environments.
- Ligularia dentata 'Othello' - Large dark leaves and golden flower spikes offer bold texture and complementary contrast.
- Acorus gramineus 'Ogon' - Bright yellow variegated foliage provides vibrant edging along water features.