About this cultivar: Iris laevigata 'Variegata' (v) is a stunning water iris that boasts wide, cream and white striped leaves that hold their colour all year. In late May and early June, the vigorous, sturdy, clumps are topped with light blue, crested iris flowers. It needs moist soil and often grows in areas that often get waterlogged (no guarantee though!!). Position: Full sun, partial shade Soil: Almost any soil, grows well in Ballyrobert Flowers: May, June Other features: Cut Flowers or Dried Flowers Hardiness: Fully hardy - grows well in Ballyrobert Habit: Clump forming Foliage: Deciduous Height: 60 - 90 cm (2 - 3 ft) Spread: 45 - 60 cm (1.5 - 2 ft) Time to full growth: 2 to 5 years Plant type: Herbaceous Perennial Colour: Green, white, purple, blue Goes well with: Hosta, Hemerocallis, Geranium About this genus: Iris (i-ris) is a genus of 260–300 species of flowering plants with showy flowers. It takes its name from the Greek word for rainbow, referring to the wide variety of flower colours found among the many species. As well as being the scientific name, Iris is also used as a common name. Long in cultivation there seem to be as many cultivars as plants. Culturally the genus has had quite an impact. The fleur-de-lis, a stylized Iris, first occurs in its modern use as the emblem of the House of Capet (rulers of France 987 to 1328). It is also the universal symbol for Scouting. Many artists have a 'thing' with Iris, not least Van Gogh- who was a fan of Iris (not just sunflowers).... see images opposite! As a group, Iris species can range from drought-tolerant dry land perennials to bog dwellers and from sun to shade, so there is no set of cultivation rules for the genus as a whole. In general though the cultivars we have in our garden (and sell), are tough, low maintenance plants perfect for wet gardens and similar sites. Try pairing irises in the garden with Hosta, Hemerocallis, Geranium. They also look great as a cut-flower; the reason you don't get them in florists is that they don't transport well.
