Japanese Water Iris

Also known as the Japanese Flag, or Sword-leaved Iris, the Japanese Water Iris is native to China, Japan, Korea and Russia. Highly prized in Japan for its amazing flowers, it was introduced into Europe in the mid-19th century, and can now be found in damp meadows and along water margins. It really is a must for any pond or water feature.

A very hardy clump-forming perennial, the Japanese Water Iris has sword-shaped leaves that reach a height of 2ft (60 cm). The huge striking flowers, likened by some to orchids, appear in June-July, in a mix of blues, lilacs, purples and white, reaching a height of 3-4 ft (90-120 cm).

Happy in sun or semi-shade, the Japanese Water Iris prefers boggy or poorly drained soil, and works well grown along the margins of a pond or stream. It can be grown in water but will need to lifted in the winter.

• Perennial.
• Clump-forming perennial.
• Produces huge orchid-like blooms in shades of blue, lilac, lavender, purple and white.
• Flowers reach a height of 3-4 ft (90-120 cm).
• Likes sun or semi-shade.
• Prefers boggy or poorly drained soil.
• Can be grown in water during the summer.