Iris ensata 'Alba'
Japanese water iris ( syn. Iris kaempferi White)
This pond plant dies right back in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
- Position: full sun or partial shade
- Soil: reliably moist or boggy soil, or aquatic compost
- Depth of water: 0-15cm
- Rate of growth: average to fast-growing
- Flowering period: May to July
- Hardiness: fully hardy
Glowing white flowers form in small clusters at the top of the upright stems of this elegant water iris in summer. Use it to add structural interest at the margins of a pond or stream, and team it with ground-covering or mound-forming moisture loving plants. It also works well in smaller water features on the patio. - Garden care: To encourage healthy growth of roots, foliage and flowers, feed with a general-purpose or slow-release aquatic fertiliser. Remove yellow or brown leaves to keep the plant healthy and the water clean. Cut water iris to just above the water line in autumn if you live in a cooler part of the country.
- Humans/Pets: Harmful if eaten