Iris ensata Variegata (Japanese Iris)

A stunning variegated Japanese Iris, multiple award-winning 'Variegata' or 'Silverband' (Iris ensata) is loved for both its beautiful flowers and very attractive silvery foliage. This Iris produces single, small-sized, rich dark purple flowers with a reddish sheen and a small bright golden yellow eye on their falls that stands out on the striking silver-white variegated foliage. Elegantly rising up to 35 in. (87 cm), this early midseason Japanese Iris exhibits its exquisite blooms in early to mid-summer. 'Variegata' is highly prized for its stunning variegated foliage which, unlike many variegated plants, retains its variegation throughout the entire season. Spectacular when planted in groups, this lovely Iris will excel at providing vertical interest in the garden.

• Won the Honorable Mention Award (1992) as well as the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Easy to grow, this Japanese Iris performs best in full sun or part shade, in humus-rich, medium to wet, acidic soils. It loves moisture-retentive soils and thrives in standing water, up to 6 in. deep (15 cm), during the growing season. Since Japanese Irises do not cope well with standing water and boggy soils in winter, you may want to grow yours in pots that are sunk in water during the growing season but which then are moved to dryer ground in fall and winter.
• Will grow successfully in ordinary garden soils or perennial borders as long as it receives adequate moisture, especially during the growing season.
• No serious insect or disease problems. Watch for slugs and snails as well as wet conditions in winter which may cause root rot.
• Deer resistant, salt and wet soil tolerant.
• A welcomed addition to water gardens, Japanese gardens, along pools or streams. Most spectacular when planted in large groupings where it develops a bouquet effect
• Propagate by division of rhizomes from midsummer to early fall. Remove any dying foliage in the fall. Old flower stems may be cut down after flowering.
• To be planted in fall or spring. Plant your rhizomes approximately 2 in. deep (5 cm). After planting, add a heavy mulch of 2 to 3 in. (5-7 cm) to help conserve moisture and reduce weeds.
• All parts may cause discomfort if ingested. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.