Perennials
Iris ensata 'Lion King'
Lion King Japanese iris
Large, ruffled double flowers have white centers and broad purple edges. Tall stems make a striking early-summer accent beside moist garden borders. Divide crowded clumps every 3–4 years.
At a glance
- Sun
- Full sun to part shade
- Mature size
- 3–4 ft. tall × 24–28 in. wide
- Water
- Consistently moist soil
- Hardiness
- USDA zones 4–9
- Bloom
- White with purple edges and yellow signals; early summer.
Sizes & prices
- #1Call for price
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
- Dry soil stunts growth and flowers.
- Wet soil
- Likes moist pond margins; keep water from covering roots.
- Deer & rabbits
- Resistant, not browse-proof.
Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.
Pollinators & wildlife
- Attracts
- Bees, Hummingbirds
Keep in mind: Harmful if eaten; sap can irritate skin. Wear gloves when dividing.
Growing & care
- Moisture
- Mulch to keep the soil from drying out.
- Uses
- Moist borders and cut flowers.
- 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
Photo: Photo courtesy of © Awakened Images Photography · Authorized promotional use
Reviewed September 21, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.