Perennials
Iris pallida 'Variegata Aurea'
Gold-variegated Dalmatian iris
Also known as: Zebra iris · Iris pallida 'Aurea Variegata' · Iris pallida 'Aureo Variegata' · Gold-variegated sweet iris
Gold and gray-green stripes run along sword-shaped leaves. Fragrant lavender-blue flowers add early-summer color. Grow in freely draining soil is especially important in humid summers.
At a glance
- Sun
- Full sun
- Mature size
- 21–23 in. tall × 12–18 in. wide
- Water
- Moderate; excellent drainage
- Hardiness
- USDA zones 3–9
- Bloom
- Lavender blue; late spring–early summer.
Sizes & prices
- #1$18.99
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
- Water during establishment and prolonged dry spells.
- Wet soil
- Avoid wet winter soil and poorly drained beds.
- 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 in late summer.
- 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: Aiko Vanhulsen · CC BY 2.0
Image notes: Gold-variegated Dalmatian iris, listed by NC State as Iris pallida Variegata. Photo by Aiko Vanhulsen, CC BY 2.0. Uncropped.
Reviewed September 21, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.