An elegant moisture-loving iris with large flat-faced blooms in shades of purple, blue and white over slender upright foliage. Loves wet ground in spring and summer but prefers drier feet in winter.
At a glance
- Plant type: Aquatic plant
- Mature size: 90 cm H × 50 cm W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: wet or boggy ground
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Japanese Water Iris
Iris ensata is an moderate-growing aquatic plant in the Iridaceae family. It reaches around 90 cm tall and 50 cm wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. Purple, blue and white flowers appear in spring and summer.
Where to grow Japanese Water Iris
Japanese Water Iris suits warm-temperate and cool-temperate climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Japanese Water Iris does best in clay and acidic soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Japanese Water Iris is wet or boggy ground. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Japanese Water Iris after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Japanese Water Iris in the garden
Japanese Water Iris earns its place for a feature or specimen planting and cut flowers for the vase.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Japanese Water Iris with other plants that enjoy the same wet or boggy ground and warm-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Buying Japanese Water Iris
Plant Sale lists Japanese Water Iris as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.