Iris ensata 'Tora Tora'

We bought this because of the unusual name...the term used by the Japanese to indicate the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. Not surprisingly, this extraordinarily vigorous selection of Japanese iris has been a real standout in our garden. The 2' tall deer-resistant clumps are topped in late May (NC) with a stunning display of large, light lavender flowers accented by darker purple veining and a patch of gold near the base of each petal. Moist soil is important for best performance, as is clump division every 3 years.