Iris laevigata 'Snowdrift' is a white-flowered Japanese water iris with upright, silvery-green leaves. In May and June it produces white flowers with a pale lilac flush at the centre.

'Snowdrift' at a glance

Botanical name Iris laevigata 'Snowdrift'
Common name Japanese water iris
Plant type Clump-forming iris; dies back in winter
Height and spread About 80 cm tall, up to 50 cm wide
Flowers White with a pale lilac flush at the centre, May and June
Position Full sun (tolerates light shade)
Soil Wet, humus-rich, acid to neutral soil or shallow water
Pond depth 0–10 cm of water over the crown
Hardiness RHS H7 – very hardy (below -20°C)
Native to Garden form of an East Asian iris (not UK native)

Can it grow in water?

Yes. Like other Iris laevigata, it is a true water iris and can stand in shallow water all year, with up to 10 cm over the crown.

Where to plant it

  • A sunny pond shelf, 0–10 cm deep
  • The wet margins of ponds and streams
  • Next to blue or purple irises for contrast

Is it good for wildlife?

The upright leaves help dragonflies climb out of the water and give cover to pond animals.

Is it poisonous?

Yes. Irises are harmful if eaten by people or pets, so wear gloves when handling it.

Which size should I buy?

Bare-root plants (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive without a pot or compost and are the most economical way to plant a group. Potted plants (9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive growing in our peat-free compost and give a faster display. Packs of 3 come in 7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre bare-root sizes and cost less per plant. The 2x Pot & Compost option is two plants supplied with pots and compost.

Pond depth: 0 - 10cm

Light: Full sun

Hardiness: Hardy

Height and spread: 40 - 80cm tall, 30 - 50cm wide

Planting and flowering months are shown in the calendar under the photos.

Bare root (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre, 3 litre): plants sent without a pot or compost, ready to plant straight away. The most economical way to plant a group.

Potted (9 cm, 1 litre, 3 litre): plants growing in our recycled, peat-free compost made in Lincolnshire. Larger sizes give a faster display.

Pack of 3 (7 cm bare-root, 9 cm bare-root, 1 litre bare-root, 3 litre bare-root): three plants of the chosen size at a lower price per plant.

2x Pot & Compost: two plants supplied with pots and compost.

Sizes shown with a line through them are currently unavailable.

At Lincs Plants, we strive to provide fast and reliable shipping to ensure your plants arrive in perfect condition. We offer 1-3 day shipping through a variety of dispatch methods to suit your needs.

Processing Time:
Orders are processed within 1 - 3 business day after payment confirmation. Orders placed on weekends or public holidays will be processed the next business day.

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Should you have any questions or concerns about your shipment, feel free to contact us.