Description of Iris laevigata 'Rose Queen'

Iris laevigata 'Rose Queen' is a Japanese water iris that brings a soft pink colour to damp parts of your garden. Gardeners often choose it for pond edges and bog gardens because it grows well in wet soil and shallow water.

Appearance and Growth Habit

This iris forms dense clumps of narrow, upright leaves. The foliage is a bright green colour. The plant typically reaches a height of 60 to 90 centimetres, with a spread of 30 to 60 centimetres.

From late spring to early summer, tall stems rise above the leaves. These stems carry large, soft pink flowers. The flower petals spread out gracefully. A small yellow mark sits at the centre of each bloom, providing a gentle contrast.

Ideal Growing Conditions for Iris laevigata 'Rose Queen'

Iris laevigata 'Rose Queen' needs a sunny or partially shaded spot. Its main requirement is constant moisture. It is happiest in soil that is always wet or even waterlogged.

You can plant it in shallow water at the edge of a pond, up to about 10 centimetres deep. It grows well in rich soil, including clay and loam. This iris is fully hardy in the British climate. It dies back in winter and sends up fresh new growth each spring.

Planting and Ongoing Care

The best way to propagate this iris is by division. Do this in early spring or late summer. Lift the clump and separate the rhizomes, making sure each new piece has some roots and a shoot. Replant them straight away.

Care for Iris laevigata 'Rose Queen' is simple. The key is to keep the soil moist. Remove faded flowers to keep the plant looking neat. In late autumn, cut the old foliage back to the ground. This helps prevent disease and encourages strong growth in the new season.

Where to Plant Iris laevigata 'Rose Queen'

This iris is perfect for the margins of a garden pond. It also suits a bog garden or any area that stays damp. It pairs well with other moisture-loving plants like marsh marigolds and pickerel weed.

You can use it to naturalise a wet area, where it will slowly spread to form a colourful group. It also grows successfully in a large container. Place the container in a shallow part of a water feature for a beautiful display.

Benefits for Garden Wildlife

The flowers of Iris laevigata 'Rose Queen' attract bees and butterflies. These pollinators visit the blooms to collect nectar. The dense clumps of leaves offer shelter for small creatures like frogs and insects. The roots also help to hold the soil in place at the water's edge, which can reduce erosion.

Iris laevigata 'Rose Queen' is a reliable and attractive plant for any garden with damp soil or a pond. Its gentle pink flowers and easy-going nature make it a favourite for adding colour and supporting wildlife.