Iris ensata 'Crystal Halo' is a captivating Japanese iris that features large ruffled violet purple blooms edged in pristine white. Offering elegant vertical form, it makes a striking addition to water gardens or damp borders.
Height & Spread: 28 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Early to midsummer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part sun
Soil Preference: Prefers rich, acidic, moisture retentive soil; tolerates standing water during active growth
Watering Needs: High during growing season; thrives in consistently moist to wet conditions
Deer Resistance: Moderate
Native Status
Not native to North America. A cultivated variety of Japanese iris, originally native to wetlands and streambanks of Japan and China, popular in ornamental and water garden use worldwide.
Wildlife & Insects
Butterflies
- Attracts Eastern Tiger Swallowtails and other nectar seeking butterflies drawn to its large, showy flowers.
Bees
- Visited by native bumblebees and sweat bees that forage for pollen on the flat, open blossoms.
Beneficial Insects
- Provides floral resources for predatory wasps and hoverflies that help control pests in moist garden zones.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to encourage good air circulation and healthy clump development in wet sites.
Landscape Placement
- Excellent for pond edges, rain gardens, or low lying borders where consistent moisture supports vigorous growth and dramatic flowering.
Companion Plants
- Lobelia cardinalis (Cardinal Flower) - Brilliant red spires add height and color contrast while thriving in similar moist conditions.
- Acorus calamus (Sweet Flag) - Offers grassy vertical foliage that pairs well with the upright iris form and wet soil preference.
- Caltha palustris (Marsh Marigold) - Early blooming yellow flowers provide seasonal interest before the iris blooms.
- Hosta 'Guacamole' (Guacamole Hosta) - Broad chartreuse foliage complements iris blooms and tolerates damp shade nearby.
- Carex elata 'Bowles Golden' (Golden Sedge) - Bright foliage and water tolerance make it an excellent textural and color companion.