Iris ensata Variegata - Japanese Water Iris

They like a damp and marshy soil, without limestone. They also tolerate a fresh soil, even if it is not waterlogged, as long as it doesn't dry out in summer. On the other hand, they prefer a rather dry soil in winter. At Le Clos, we have planted them near an artificial stream whose water level is kept high during the summer. In winter, we let the level drop by about 15cm (6in), so that the stumps are above the water, as in nature where the river levels drop in winter and rise again in spring with the melting snow. Their cold resistance is excellent up to around -12°C (10.4°F). It is further increased if the soil is dry.