Japanese Iris Iris ensata 'Flying Tiger'

☠ Toxic to humans

🐾 Toxic to pets

🌸 Blooming

🍪 Not edible

‍🌱 Hard-care

ABOUT

The Iris ensata 'Flying Tiger' is a striking plant known for its ornamental value, characterized by its showy and large flowers. The blooms are a rich purple-blue color adorned with distinct white and gold markings that create a unique and eye-catching contrast. Each petal, referred to as falls and standards in iris terminology, displays intricate veining and may have a ruffled or frilly edge, adding to the flower's dramatic flair. The standards are the petals that stand up, while the falls are the ones that cascade downward. The foliage of the 'Flying Tiger' consists of long, slender, and sword-like leaves that grow in a fan-like arrangement. These leaves are a deep green color and contribute to the plant's upright and regal structure. The leaves emerge from thick rhizomes, which are underground stems from which the leaves and flowers grow. The overall form of the Iris ensata 'Flying Tiger' is elegant, with the sumptuous flowers sitting atop sturdy stalks that rise from amidst the green foliage. Given its distinct blooms, this plant is often used as a captivating focal point in garden designs and water features, where its exotic appearance can be showcased to dramatic effect. The 'Flying Tiger' imparts a sense of luxury and exoticism to any garden setting with its bold colors and spectacular floral design.

Plant Info

Care

Common Problems

About this plant

Names
- Synonyms
  Japanese Water Iris, Japanese Iris, Hanashōbu
- Common names
  Iris ensata 'Flying Tiger'.
Toxicity
- To humans
  Japanese iris (Iris ensata 'Flying Tiger') is generally not considered highly toxic to humans. However, like many other iris species, it contains compounds that can cause irritation. If ingested, parts of the plant, particularly the rhizomes, may cause mild stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Handling the plant may sometimes cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. It is not commonly associated with severe poisoning, but it is always wise to avoid ingesting parts of ornamental plants due to potential adverse effects.
- To pets
  Japanese iris may pose a risk to pets if ingested. While it is not known to be one of the most toxic plants to household animals, consumption of parts of the plant, especially the rhizomes, might lead to symptoms such as gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and drooling. As with humans, it is not typically associated with severe toxicity in pets, but ingestion should still be avoided, and pets should be monitored for any signs of distress after possible consumption.
Characteristics
- Life cycle
  Perennials
- Foliage type
  Deciduous
- Color of leaves
  Green
- Flower color
  Mixed
- Height
  2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
- Spread
  1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
- Plant type
  Herb
- Hardiness zones
  4
- Native area
  Japan

Benefits

General Benefits
- Ornamental Beauty: The Japanese iris 'Flying Tiger' is valued for its striking flowers with purple and white patterns, adding aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Water Garden Suitability: This iris variety thrives near ponds and water features, making it an ideal plant for water gardens and wet areas.
- Pollinator Attraction: Irises attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting biodiversity and the health of the surrounding ecosystem.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, the Japanese iris requires minimal care, making it a good choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Seasonal Interest: With its vibrant, large blooms during late spring to early summer, the 'Flying Tiger' provides a seasonal focal point in a garden setting.
- Cut Flower Potential: The blossoms of the Japanese iris make beautiful cut flowers for indoor arrangements, allowing their beauty to be enjoyed both inside and outside the home.
- Tolerance to Wet Soil: Unlike many other plants, Iris ensata 'Flying Tiger' can tolerate and even thrive in wetter soils, expanding the planting options within a landscape.
- Naturalizing: This variety can spread and multiply over time, creating larger displays of blooms in naturalized areas of the garden.
- Deer Resistance: The Japanese iris is known to be resistant to deer, which reduces the need for protective measures in gardens with deer pressure.
- Versatility in Landscaping: 'Flying Tiger' can be used in mixed borders, as a standalone specimen, or in mass plantings, offering versatility in garden designs.
Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses
- Water Gardens: Iris ensata is well-suited for water gardens or natural-looking pond edges due to its preference for moist soils and its striking appearance.
- Crafts: The fibrous leaves of the Iris can be used to create natural weaves or patterns in handmade crafts, such as baskets or mats.
- Natural Dyes: The petals of the Japanese Iris can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, yielding a range of hues from yellows to purples depending on the mordant used.
- Garden Themes: The 'Flying Tiger' cultivar can be used in thematic gardens, such as Japanese Zen gardens, to incorporate elements of eastern aesthetics.
- Photography: This variety of Iris, with its vibrant colors and patterns, makes a popular subject for botanical photographers and artists.
- Floral Arrangements: Fresh or dried, the flowers can be used in elaborate floral arrangements for their unique shape and placement on tall, elegant stems.
- Educational Use: The plant can be used in horticultural programs or botanical studies to teach about plant hybridization and diversity within species.
- Soil Erosion Control: The root system of Iris ensata can help stabilize the soil at the margins of water bodies, reducing erosion over time.
- Habitat Creation: Planting in gardens or around ponds can provide habitat for wildlife, such as providing nectar for pollinators or shelter for small aquatic creatures.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not commonly consumed, the petals can be used as an elegant garnish for special dishes in high-end culinary presentations.

Interesting Facts

Feng Shui
The Japanese iris is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Japanese iris is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism
- Faith - Irises are often associated with faith, representing belief in oneself and the divine.
- Hope - The iris is a symbol of hope, conveying a sense of anticipation for positive outcomes and future happiness.
- Wisdom - Historically, the iris has symbolized wisdom and valued knowledge, possibly because of its regal appearance.
- Courage - The striking appearance of the 'Flying Tiger' variety can be seen as a symbol of courage and bold actions.
- Royalty - With its luxurious petals and stately presence, irises are often tied to royalty, symbolizing regal authority and nobility.
- Purity - The elegant form and sometimes pure hues of irises can symbolize purity and innocence.

💧

Every 3 days

Water

☀️

2500 - 10000 Lux

Light

💦️

Humidity

🪴

Every 2-3 years

Repotting

🌱️

Spring to Summer

Propogation

✂️️

Not needed

Pruning

Water
Japanese Iris 'Flying Tiger', a moisture-loving plant, requires consistent watering to maintain a lightly moist soil without becoming waterlogged, especially during the growing season. You should water deeply, with about 1 to 1.5 gallons per week, although this might increase to 2 gallons during peak summer heat or if planted in sandy soils. Ensure that the water penetrates the soil to encourage deep root growth, but avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.
Light
Japanese Iris 'Flying Tiger' performs best in full sun to partial shade, ideally receiving at least six hours of sunlight daily. The optimum spot would be one where the plant gets morning sun and is protected from the harsh afternoon sun, under conditions that encourage vibrant blooms and robust growth.
Temperature
Japanese Iris 'Flying Tiger' prefers temperatures between 55 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, thriving in these moderate conditions. While it can endure minimum temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit, prolonged exposure to temperatures below this, especially with wet soil, can be damaging. Ideally, ensure that the plant is not subjected to extreme heat above 85 degrees Fahrenheit, as this can cause stress.
Pruning
Pruning Japanese Iris 'Flying Tiger' helps to maintain plant health and aesthetics. After blooming, trim back flower stalks to the base to avoid energy being wasted on seed production. In late fall or early winter, cut back foliage to a few inches above ground after it turns brown to tidy up the plant and discourage disease. Yearly pruning is advised to encourage vigorous growth in the upcoming season.
Cleaning
As needed
Soil
The best soil mix for the Japanese Iris 'Flying Tiger' is well-draining, humus-rich, and slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7. Amend the soil with organic matter and ensure adequate moisture retention.
Repotting
Japanese Iris 'Flying Tiger' should be repotted every 3 to 4 years to refresh the soil and divide the rhizomes if they become overcrowded.
Humidity & Misting
Japanese Iris 'Flying Tiger' prefers moderate humidity but is adaptable to various humidity levels provided they have consistent moisture in the soil.
Suitable locations
- Indoor
  Provide bright light, keep soil moist, and ensure good air circulation.
- Outdoor
  Plant in sun to part-shade, ensure moist fertile soil and good drainage.
- Hardiness zone
  4-9 USDA
Life cycle
Iris ensata 'Flying Tiger', commonly known as Japanese iris, begins its life cycle as a dormant rhizome, which sprouts in early spring as temperatures rise. New foliage emerges, growing into long, graceful leaves. By late spring to early summer, tall flowering stalks develop, leading to the blooming of the distinctive large, ruffled flowers that display vibrant purple and white patterns. After flowering, typically in midsummer, the plant sets seed in pods that eventually dry and open, dispersing seeds that can give rise to new plants. Post-bloom, the foliage continues photosynthesis to replenish the rhizome's energy reserves before the plant enters winter dormancy, during which the above-ground parts die back. This perennial cycle repeats annually, with clumps expanding over time as the rhizomes produce new offsets.
Propogation
- Propogation time
  Spring to Summer
- The most popular method of propagating Iris ensata 'Flying Tiger', commonly referred to as Japanese iris, involves division of the rhizomes. This process should ideally be carried out in late summer after the plants have finished blooming. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the clumps of Japanese iris, making sure to keep as much of the root system intact as possible. Wash the dirt off the rhizomes and inspect them for signs of disease or damage, discarding any that are not healthy. With a sharp knife, divide the rhizomes by cutting them into pieces that have one to two fans of leaves and a portion of the roots attached. Trim the leaves to about a third of their height, which is roughly 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters), to reduce water loss and make handling easier. Replant the divisions immediately, setting them at the same soil level they were previously growing and water them well to establish.