Iris variegata
variegated iris
A hardy, rhizomatous perennial with sword-shaped dark green ribbed foliage and tall, branched flowering stems holding 2 to 3 yellow-white flowers with brown-purple markings on the lower, drooping petals, these appearing from May to June
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Yellow White Brown Purple | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow White Brown Purple | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Iridaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Potentially harmful
- Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
- Genus
Iris may be rhizomatous or bulbous perennials, with narrow leaves and erect stems bearing flowers with 3 large spreading or pendent fall petals, alternating with 3 erect, often smaller, standard petals, in late winter, spring or early summer
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in well-drained, fertile, neutral to slightly acid soil in full sun. Will tolerate some shade. See bearded iris cultivation for more detailed advice
Propagation
Propagate by division, see dividing iris for more detailed advice
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Banks and slopes
- Flower borders and beds
- Wall side borders
Pruning
Remove spent flower stems and any dying foliage in autumn
Pests
Diseases
May be susceptible to aphid-borne viruses, bacterial soft rot and grey moulds; see Iris diseases
Get involved
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