Iris ensata 'Variegata'

Variegated Japanese Iris

Iris ensata ‘Variegata’ — commonly called variegated Japanese iris — is a distinctive moisture-loving perennial valued for both its striking creamy-white striped foliage and large violet-purple flowers with yellow signals that appear in early to midsummer. The upright sword-like leaves provide ornamental interest even when the plant is not in bloom, making it especially useful where foliage texture is important in the landscape.

Type: Perennial

Mature Size:
Width: 18–24 in.
Height: 24–36 in.

USDA Zones: 4a–9b

Form: Upright, clumping

Light: Full sun to partial shade

Soil: Rich, acidic to neutral, moisture-retentive soil

Water: Medium to wet; thrives in consistently moist soil during active growth

Wildlife: Deer resistant; attracts butterflies

Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent for pond edges, rain gardens, moist borders, and specimen use where variegated foliage adds season-long contrast. Foliage remains decorative even after flowering.

Care: Keep evenly moist during spring and summer. Divide clumps every 3–4 years after bloom to maintain vigor. Best performance occurs in rich soil with winter drainage to prevent crown rot.

Plant type

Perennial

Height

24-36''

Width

18-24"

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Early Summer, Late Spring

Flower color

Blue, Rose

Leaf color

Dark Spring Green

Attracts

Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Soil

Acidic, Moist well-drained, Rich

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Container, Hedge, Mass Planting

Shape

Clumping, Upright

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No