The Lion King Iris, also known as Iris ensata, is native to Japan and features eye-catching double blooms for a bold statement. The large flowers have white petals with dappled purple along the edges. A yellow eye adds a subtle burst of color. The beautiful flowers bloom from mid-June into early July. The blooms are framed by upright, narrow, dark green foliage.
Use this plant in beds or borders to add color and height. The blooms can reach 36 inches high, so feature this Iris in an area where the flowers will be visible when used as part of a mixed bed. The Lion King Iris thrives in damp conditions, making this an excellent plant to feature in naturally wet areas too damp for most plants. Feature in moist areas like near ponds or streams. This plant grows as a perennial in USDA zones 4 through 8.
Lion King Iris Care
Plant the Lion King Iris in full sun to part shade. This Iris can handle most soil types, but it does best with soil that retains moisture. The soil should also be acidic and have high organic content. The Iris ensata has high water needs but will not need much attention if grown in naturally damp areas.
This plant is a heavy feeder, and an application of balanced fertilizer in the spring before the buds appear will support abundant blooms. Remove dead growth and spent blooms. Propagate the plant through division either in midsummer or early fall after the flowers have died back. While this plant loves damp conditions during the growing season, too much moisture during the winter can be problematic, so select an area with appropriate conditions or move the rhizomes to a dry location for the winter.
Lion King Iris Spacing
The Lion King Iris will reach 24 to 36 inches tall and spread out 18 to 24 inches. Space plants 20 inches apart when part of a mass planting. Since this plant has high water needs, it can be hard to grow in containers, but a 16- to 18-inch container will provide enough space for this Iris to flourish.
Lion King Iris Information
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 – 8
Plant Type: Perennials
Light Exposure: Full Sun (At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)
Mature Height: 2 – 3 Feet
Mature Spread: 18 – 24 Inches
Spacing: 18 – 24 Inches
Habit: Upright
Flower Color(s): Purple, White, Yellow
Flower Description: Fully Doubled White Petals With Purple Edges And Splashes Of Yellow In The Center
Bloom Period: Early July
Foliage Type: Herbaceous
Foliage Color(s): Green
Foliage Description: Deep Green
Seasonal Interest: Summer Flowering
Watering: Average
Resists: Deer
Tolerates: Heat
Attracts: Bees, Hummingbirds
Container Role:
Uses: Borders, Mass Planting, Specimen or Focal Point, Wetland Areas & Ponds, Wildlife Gardens
