Iris Ensata ‘Azuma Kagami’

Every Bloom an Intricate Master piece Perfect for cutting, and they increase every year on carefree plants. We can imagine no reason NOT to add this sterling Japanese Iris to your garden at once. Boasting the most beautiful play of color ever seen in the family, the blooms are quite large and held out wide, as if to show off their intricate veining and bright yellow and blue center.Superb as cut flowers, these blooms begin in late spring in most climates and continue well into summer.

They reach about 2 feet high on plants 18 to 24 inches wide (and gradually spreading). Spidery lilac veins on pale blue to white petals create a dramatic effect, especially when combined with the bold yellow and dark blue center. Like snowflakes, each bloom is a bit different, and all are lovely!This Iris flourishes in any soil from the ordinarily moist to the wet, and the amount of sun it takes is related to the level of moisture it needs. For instance, if you want it in direct sun, a waterside or very damp soil is best, to be sure it remains constantly hydrated. If it will receive some afternoon shade, ordinary moist garden soil is fine. This makes it very useful in the garden — it is ideal for those troublesome spots that receive varying amounts of sun and shade during the year.

And of course it’s perfect for poorly draining soils where few plants are happy.Hardy from one end of the country to the other, ‘Azuma Kagami’ is a truly adaptable, versatile addition to the low-maintenance garden. Divide it every few years to increase its bloom strength and your own garden’s beauty, and combine it with other Japanese Iris or moisture-loving plants in the border, at the waterside, or in woodland settings. It doesn’t mind heat or humidity. Highly recommended.

Zones 4-9.