Iris 'Variegata'

Iris 'Variegata': Bold Contrast, Timeless Form

With its striking gold-and-green variegated foliage and classic violet-blue blooms, Iris 'Variegata' adds colour even before it flowers. Each blade is edged in creamy yellow, catching light throughout the season, while the traditional bearded iris flowers emerge in late spring to complete the picture. It's a dramatic, sun-loving perennial that offers multi-season interest in elegant form.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 70–80 cm
• Spread: 40–50 cm, upright and clump-forming
• Flower Colour: Rich violet-blue with gold beards
• Flowering Period: Late spring
• Foliage: Sword-like green leaves boldly edged in gold; semi-evergreen
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained soil; tolerates drought once established, but avoid wet conditions in winter

Uses and Benefits: Iris 'Variegata' is a vibrant feature plant in sun-drenched borders, gravel gardens, and foundation beds. Its variegated foliage makes it a standout even when not in bloom, offering contrast and brightness alongside more subdued greens. In flower, it delivers a traditional iris silhouette with unexpected flair. Use in groups for bold rhythm or singly as a specimen accent.

Companion Plants: Pair Iris 'Variegata' with Salvia 'Bumbleblue', whose compact spikes enhance the iris’s bloom window and attract pollinators. Add Achillea 'Little Moonshine' to reflect the golden tones in the foliage while providing a feathery contrast. Frame the planting with Festuca 'Elijah Blue' for a cool-toned, textural base that highlights the foliage and bloom alike.

Care Instructions: Plant rhizomes just above the soil surface in full sun and well-drained soil. Avoid overwatering and heavy mulches over the rhizomes. Divide clumps every 3–4 years after flowering to maintain vigour and prevent overcrowding. Deadhead to keep the planting tidy.

History: Iris 'Variegata' is an heirloom variety prized for its distinctive foliage as much as its blooms. Long grown in traditional gardens across Europe and North America, it bridges ornamental leaf interest with classic iris charm.

Final Thoughts: Eye-catching even out of bloom, Iris 'Variegata' brings colour, structure, and heritage flair to sunny spaces—an enduring favourite for gardens that celebrate both foliage and flower.