Iris ensata 'Lion King' ~ Lion King Japanese Iris

Lion King Japanese Iris is a marginal deciduous perennial with long, sword-like dark green foliage that fans upwards.  Sturdy stalks that grow from the center of the plant are topped by huge, fully double three-parted grape purple edged flowers broad with white centers and yellow splashes on the falls in early summer, attracting bees.  Grows best in rich, slightly acidic, moist to wet water-retentive soils.   Type:  Perennial Origins: SE Siberia and East Asia Height:  3' - 4' Spread:  2' - 2.5' Spacing:  2’ USDA Hardiness Zone:  4 - 9 Culture:  Full Sun, Part Sun Bloom Color:  Purple+White Season of Interest:   Summer MAINTENANCE NEEDS:  Medium Maintenance.  Water regularly, then occasionally once established.  Can cut back any dying foliage after flowering.  In winter, it is intolerant of wet or boggy soils- the roots may rot- move to dryer ground for fall and winter. LANDSCAPE USES:  Accents or Group Plantings, Borders, Woodla