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Description
The Iris Laevigata Variegata, also known as the Variegated Japanese Water Iris, is a stunning perennial plant with striking variegated leaves that add a pop of color to any garden. The plant can grow up to 3 feet in height and has narrow, sword-shaped leaves that are green with white stripes. The flowers are a rich, deep blue-purple and bloom in late spring to early summer, producing a lovely scent that attracts bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Iris |
Appearance
The Iris Laevigata Variegata is a distinctive plant with variegated leaves that are green with white stripes. The leaves grow up to 2 feet long and are sword-shaped. The flowers are a rich, deep blue-purple and grow up to 4 inches in diameter. They bloom in late spring to early summer and have a lovely scent that attracts bees and butterflies. The plant can grow up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in width, making it a great addition to any garden.
Care Guide
The Iris Laevigata Variegata requires moderate care and attention to thrive in your garden. Here are some tips to ensure that your plant stays healthy and beautiful:- Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: The plant needs to be fertilized during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.- Soil: The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Ensure that the soil is enriched with organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Ensure that it gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Iris Laevigata Variegata is susceptible to some pests and diseases that can affect its growth and health. Here are some common ones to watch out for:- Iris borer: This pest can damage the foliage and flowers of the plant. Look out for small holes on the leaves and treat with insecticide if necessary.- Leaf spot: This disease can cause brown spots on the leaves of the plant. Remove affected leaves and treat with fungicide if necessary.- Rust: This disease can cause orange or brown spots on the leaves of the plant. Remove affected leaves and treat with fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
The Iris Laevigata Variegata is native to Japan and can be found growing in wetlands, marshes, and along the banks of rivers and streams. The plant prefers moist soil and can tolerate some flooding. It is a great addition to any water garden or bog garden.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Iris Laevigata Variegata?
A: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for the plant?
A: The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
Q: How tall can the plant grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in width.
Q: What is the blooming period for the plant?
A: The plant blooms in late spring to early summer.
Related Plants
– Iris Laevigata- Iris Ensata- Iris Sibirica- Iris Pseudacorus
References
– “Iris Laevigata Variegata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed May 14, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287129.- “Variegated Japanese Water Iris – Iris Laevigata Variegated.” Gardenia. Accessed May 14, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/iris-laevigata-variegata-variegated-japanese-water-iris.
