Description of Iris ensata 'Lady in Waiting'

Iris ensata 'Lady in Waiting' is a Japanese Iris with a soft colour palette. It brings a gentle look to gardens that have moist soil. This perennial plant fits well next to ponds, in bog gardens, or in any area that stays damp.

Plant Size and Appearance

This iris grows to a height of 90 to 120 centimetres. It spreads out to about 45 to 60 centimetres wide. The plant forms a clump of narrow, upright leaves. These leaves are green and sword-shaped. They add structure to your garden for many months.

The flowers appear in midsummer, from June into July. Each bloom is large, often 15 to 20 centimetres across. The petals have a ruffled edge. Their colour is a pale lavender-pink. At the base, the petals turn white. You will see faint, darker veins running through them. The centre of the flower holds a small, bright yellow mark.

Growing Conditions for Iris ensata 'Lady in Waiting'

This plant needs moist soil to grow well. It is perfect for a spot that never dries out. You can plant it at the edge of a pond. It also grows in shallow water, up to about 10 centimetres deep.

Choose a place with full sun for the best flower display. It can handle some partial shade, especially in hotter parts of the country. The soil should be rich. Mix in plenty of compost or well-rotted manure before planting. The plant prefers soil that is slightly acidic to neutral.

Iris ensata 'Lady in Waiting' is frost-tolerant. It is hardy in the UK and will return reliably each year.

Plant Care and Maintenance

Watering is the most important task. You must keep the soil consistently moist. This is especially true during the growing season and when the plant is in flower.

Divide the clump every three to four years. Do this in late summer or early autumn, after it has finished flowering. Division stops the plant from becoming too crowded. It also helps to maintain its health. Replant the new divisions straight away into prepared, moist soil.

In early spring, feed the plant. Use a balanced fertiliser that is not too high in nitrogen. Put a layer of mulch around the plant each year. This helps the soil retain moisture and keeps weeds down. In late autumn, cut the old foliage back to the ground.

Where to Plant Iris ensata 'Lady in Waiting'

Its main use is in water gardens. It looks beautiful next to a pond. It also works in a bog garden or a rain garden. The flowers are good for cutting. You can bring them indoors to enjoy in a vase.

The plant helps wildlife. Bees and butterflies visit the flowers for nectar. The thick roots and leaves can help hold soil in place on wet banks. This reduces erosion.

Remember the key needs for this iris. It requires wet soil and plenty of sun. Divide it every few years to keep it flowering well. With this care, Iris ensata 'Lady in Waiting' will add a soft, graceful presence to your damp garden spaces.