Perennials
Iris ensata 'Variegata'
Variegated Japanese iris
Also known as: Variegated Japanese water iris
White-striped, grassy leaves make a strong foliage accent. Drooping purple flowers appear above the clump in summer. Grow in neutral to acidic, moisture-retentive soil.
At a glance
- Sun
- Full sun to part shade
- Mature size
- 27–29 in. tall × 18–23 in. wide
- Water
- Abundant moisture in the growing season
- Hardiness
- USDA zones 4–9
- Bloom
- Purple; early–midsummer.
Sizes & prices
- #1$16.99
Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.
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Resistance & tolerances
- Drought
- Not a dry-site plant.
- Wet soil
- Tolerates a pot sitting in shallow standing water during active growth; avoid standing water in winter.
- Clay soil
- Suitable with appropriate drainage.
- Deer & rabbits
- Resistant, not browse-proof.
Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.
Pollinators & wildlife
- Attracts
- Butterflies
Keep in mind: Harmful if eaten; sap can irritate skin. Wear gloves when dividing.
Growing & care
- Division
- Divide every 3–4 years after flowering.
- Fall cleanup
- After a hard frost, remove old leaves, stems and nearby debris to reduce overwintering iris-borer eggs.
Sources & photo credits
University of Minnesota Extension
Botanical name: Kew Science.
Photo: David J. Stang · CC BY-SA 4.0
Image notes: Iris ensata Variegata. David J. Stang, CC BY-SA 4.0. Resized, uncropped.
Reviewed September 21, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.