Iris laevigata 'Variegata' ~ Variegated Rabbit-Ear Iris

Variegated Rabbit-Ear Iris is a marginal deciduous perennial with long, sword-like variegated green foliage with broad cream bands that fans upwards.  Sturdy stalks that grow from the center of the plant are topped by large three-parted blue purple flowers with short upright standards and broad falls that have a narrow center crest and bloom from late spring to early summer, attracting bees.  Grows best in moist rich soils or 3-6 inches of shallow water.   Type:  Perennial Origins: East Asia Height:  2' - 2.5' Spread:  1' - 1.5' Spacing:  1.5’ USDA Hardiness Zone:  5 - 9 Culture:  Full Sun, Part Sun Bloom Color:  Purple Season of Interest:   Spring, 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:  Acce