Iris plants have been fan favorites for years and years due to their mesmerizing spring flower display. However, this one in particular is also known for its foliage! The Variegata Iris (Iris ensata 'Variegata') has striking cream and green variegated foliage that gives this Iris an appeal all growing season long! We'd actually consider Variegata Iris a foliage plant that happens to have the added bonus of beautiful blooms. As summer starts up in full force, you'll find pristine lavender blossoms atop strong, sturdy stems. The flowers are sweetly scented of orange blossom or vanilla, so they are fantastic for cut flower bouquets so you can enjoy their scent. Include some of the variegated foliage in the bouquets for vertical texture as well! Deer and rabbits seldom bother with these plants but the Butterflies and Bees will flutter from near and far to sip nectar! Hardy throughout USDA planting zones 4 to 8, these perennial rhizomes spread to 2 feet wide and 2 feet tall when in bloom, the upright sword-like foliage showing off all growing season! Planting and Application: This variety of Japanese Iris loves moisture, growing in moderate to high moisture areas! That soggy area around the HVAC unit, around ponds and water features, or in Rain Gardens all gain a hardy water-loving showy perennial! Best used around pools, ponds, and water gardens! When used in mass planting, Variegata can also be used on difficult banks to prevent erosion and stabilize soil! Try planting Japanese Water Iris in the well-watered areas throughout your front garden so guests can see it as they walk up to your front entryway. Or you could add them to your perennial flower bed out back to enjoy while lounging on the patio. Groupings around your seating areas add vivid foliage color and fragrance while you entertain outdoors! Lovely Lavender-Blue Fragrant Blooms Beautiful Variegated Upright Foliage Upright Sword-Like Leaves Pollinator Magnet & Beautiful Cut Flowers Sun Gardens, Wetlands, Pollinator Gardens, Groupings & Containers #ProPlantTips For Care This Iris isn't fussy about soil. All it needs to stay happy and healthy is a spot in full sun and planted in well-drained soil. Your Variegata Iris needs plenty of water throughout the season to continue to look its best. It rewards consistent moisture by being useful in many ways. Consider adding a layer of mulch around the base to conserve moisture and protect the roots. Deadhead the flowers as they fade and trim back the foliage in the autumn. Every 3-5 years, divide the clumps and rearrange the rhizomes to keep them in tight formation and to prevent them from being buried too deeply, preferring to be planted more shallowly in the ground. In fact, the top 1/3 of each rhizome should be exposed and 2/3 of it should be below ground for best results. For the winter, loosely cover your Iris in a layer of clean leaves, straw or compost, pulling it away in the spring. Full Sun & Afternoon Shaded Locations Loves Moist to Average Moisture Well-Drained Rich Soil Deadhead After Flowers Fade & Trim Stems in Late Autumn Deer & Rabbit-Resistant Don't go another season without this versatile perennial! Order Variegata Japanese Iris to finish your outdoor projects today! Call Nature Hills Nursery and get your order placed before they sell out! Explore More from Nature Hills The Variegata Japanese Iris makes an excellent addition to your collection of perennials, particularly when paired with other deer resistant plants and zone 5 plants, trees & shrubs for a cohesive garden design. This striking iris works beautifully in mixed plantings, and you can discover more ideas in our guide on how to Create The Perfect Mixed Perennial Garden!. For additional inspiration with similar colored blooms, explore our article about Classic Colors Blue & Purple Flowering Perennials.
