About
Iris japonica, the fringed iris, is a rhizomatous perennial forming fans of glossy, evergreen foliage. Branched stems to 45 cm bear white or pale-blue flowers to 5 cm across with fringed, deep-purple-spotted falls and orange crests. A beautiful and distinctive iris for a sheltered, partly shaded border.
About the genus
Iris, the irises, are rhizomatous or bulbous perennials producing narrow, often sword-shaped leaves and distinctive flowers with three large, spreading or pendent fall petals alternating with three erect standard petals. They flower from late winter to early summer in every colour of the rainbow.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitTufted
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, Rock garden
Native toChina, Japan
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist, humus-rich soil in a sheltered position in sun or partial shade
PruningRemove any dying foliage in autumn, old flower stems can be cut down after flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame in autumn or spring. Propagate by division of rhizomes from midsummer to early autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs, snails and thrips
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to aphid-borne viruses, bacterial soft rot and grey moulds; see Iris diseases