Description of Iris ensata 'Gracieuse'

Iris ensata 'Gracieuse' is a Japanese iris grown for large early summer flowers and clean upright foliage. It suits bog gardens where soil stays wet and rich through spring and early summer.

Appearance

It forms fans of narrow leaves, then sends up tall stems carrying broad flat blooms. Flowering height is usually 70 to 100cm. The foliage stays neat after flowering and helps anchor mixed marginal planting.

Care Guide

Consistent moisture in spring is key to strong flowering.

• Sun: Full sun for best results.
• Soil: Moisture retentive soil with plenty of organic matter.
• Water: Keep constantly moist from spring into summer.
• Feeding: A light feed in spring supports bud formation.
• Division: Divide in spring every few years to refresh clumps.

Avoid letting the root zone dry while stems are forming.

Suitability for Bog Garden

This iris suits bog gardens and damp pond edges where crowns sit just above the wettest layer. Plant in groups so the flowers read as a clear block of colour.

It also works well grown in baskets sunk into liner bog beds.

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