Unpack bare roots or rhizomes on arrival and plant them within a week. Until then, keep them somewhere cool and ensure the roots remain slightly moist, never wet.
Out of season
Deluxe
Iris ensata
'Variegata'
variegated Japanese water iris
If you have an area of the garden that has a permanently moist soil, then you must grow the stunning Iris ensata 'Variegata'. Known as the variegated Japanese water iris, in early summer the combination of variegated grey-green and white leaves, and the rich, red-tinged-purple flowers, makes this a beautiful addition to the garden. And it is versatile, too. Plant it straight into the ground (where it will spread to form a generous clump of sword-shaped leaves), or pot it up (if you want to contain the clump and keep it compact). Or, you can even plant it into an aquatic basket for growing in the margins of a shallow pond!
Iris ensata 'Variegata' is so highly regarded by experts, that the Royal Horticultural Society has given it the coveted Award of Garden Merit. Reaching 50-100 cm in height, it is perfect for adding some vertical interest to your garden.
Quantity
Plant profile
Plant calendar
Remove the packaging straight away, check the compost and water thoroughly if dry. Check the plant’s hardiness before placing it outdoors. Plant into a border or permanent container within a month, choosing the position recommended for the variety. Keep the top of the root ball level with the surrounding soil, firm gently and water well.
Soak the roots in water for three to six hours immediately before planting. Keep any crown, buds or emerging shoots above the water where possible.
Pot most bare roots into 15–20cm pots filled with peat-free multipurpose compost. Large or depth-sensitive roots, including peonies, are often best planted directly into borders.
Arrange the roots naturally without bending them. Cover the roots completely, positioning the crown and buds at the depth recommended for that particular perennial.
Keep pots in a sheltered outdoor position and water whenever the compost begins to dry. Grow on until roots hold the compost together when lifted from the pot.
Plant into a suitable border or permanent container once well rooted. Add a label and water regularly throughout the first growing season while the perennial establishes.
- Botanical name
- Iris ensata 'Variegata'
- Flower colour
- Purple
- Established height
- 70cm-1m
- Established spread
- 50-70cm
- Growing skill
- Easy to grow
- Habit
-
Upright
Clump-forming - Hardiness
- Fully hardy
- Leaf colour
- Variegated
- Mouse resistant
- Yes
- Plant size
- 1
- Plant spacing
- 100 plants per m2
- Pollinator friendly
- No
- Position
-
Sheltered
Exposed - Rabbit resistant
- Yes
- RHS Award (AGM)
- Yes
- Scented
- No
- Soil acidity
- Any
- Soil moisture
-
Damp
Boggy - Soil type
-
Loam
Sandy
Clay
Loam-based compost
Multipurpose compost - Suitable for
-
Pots
Large containers
Borders
Meadows
Water gardens
Coastal gardens
Low maintenance gardens
Cut flower gardens - Sunlight
-
Full sun
Partial shade - Toxicity
-
Skin/eyes irritant
Harmful if eaten - Years to establish
- 1-2 years
Good for cutting
Perfect for pots
Pollinator-friendly
Fragrant
Thrives in full sun
RHS Recommended
Perennial
Fully hardy
Packed peat-free
Naturalising
Low maintenance
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Expert care from
choice to delivery
Our horticulturalists prepare every bulb and plant with the utmost care. From selection to packing, each one receives expert attention before beginning its journey to your garden.
Better by nature
From cultivation to packaging and delivery, we are always looking for ways to lessen our environmental impact.
Growing together
Our care team of horticultural experts is on hand to support you choose and garden with confidence.
World of wonders
A collection of world-renowned flower bulbs and perennials of exceptional beauty and character.
Chosen to thrive
Every bulb and plant is sourced, selected and prepared with an expert eye for their quality and garden performance.
