Iris ensata 'Variegata' ~ Monrovia® Variegated Japanese Iris

Variegated Japanese Iris is a marginal deciduous perennial with a clumping habit.  The long variegated light green and cream sword-like foliage fan upwards.  Sturdy stalks that grow from the center of the plant are topped by dark violet flowers with a yellow layered center in summer, attracting bees.  Grows best in rich, slightly acidic, moist to wet water-retentive soils.   Type:  Perennial Origins: SE Siberia and East Asia Height:  1' - 2' Spread:  1' - 2' Spacing:  1.5’ USDA Hardiness Zone:  4 - 8 Culture:  Full Sun, Part Sun Bloom Color:  Purple 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, Woodland Gardens, Water Gardens, Ponds and Stre