In our ongoing journey through the Japanese floral calendar, June welcomes the exquisite Iris (菖蒲 – shōbu), a flower that epitomizes elegance and resilience. As highlighted in our earlier post, Discovering the Beauty of the Japanese Floral Calendar: A Journey Through the Seasons, each month in Japan is graced by a flower that not only marks the passage of time, but also holds deep cultural significance. This month, we delve into the beauty and symbolism of the Iris, exploring its role in Ohara Ikebana and how it can inspire your arrangements - wherever you are in the world.

The Many Faces of the Iris

While many people outside Japan think of “Japanese iris” as a single plant, Japan is actually home to three distinct species:

• Hanashōbu (Iris ensata): The classic “Japanese iris,” commonly found in gardens and often featured in Ikebana arrangements.
• Kakitsubata (Iris laevigata): Sometimes called “rabbit-ear iris,” known for its slender, graceful blooms.
• Ayame (Iris sanguinea): Wild and resilient, typically thriving in meadows and marshlands.

Beyond these, iris varieties such as Siberian, German Bearded, Louisiana, and the rare “rabbit-ear iris” expand the creative possibilities.

Chinese species such as Iris japonica—often called “fringed iris” or shaga in Japanese—and Iris tectorum (roof iris) bring their own unique beauty and symbolism. The fringed iris is especially admired for its delicate, fringed petals, zig-zag stems, and glossy evergreen leaves. In Chinese culture, these irises are associated with courage and nobility, and their soft hues pair wonderfully with pale blue or lavender vessels.

If you’d like to learn more about these fascinating flowers, the Japan Iris Society offers an excellent introduction to the Wild Iris Species in Japan.

Working with Iris in Ohara Ikebana

The Ohara School treasures iris for its bold lines and sense of movement - perfect for early summer arrangements. Traditionally, hanashōbu and kakitsubata are favored, but outside Japan, these can be very difficult to source. For many of us, local nurseries may offer Siberian, Louisiana, or German Bearded irises instead.

This raises a common question: Is it acceptable to use other iris family plants when the traditional Japanese varieties are unavailable? Ohara School Headmaster Hiroki Ohara offers encouragement:

“Indeed, flowers like rabbit-ear iris (kakitsubata) and sword-leaved iris (hanashōbu) are often only available in Japan. In terms of learning the fundamental techniques of the school and appreciating each flower’s unique presence, it is perfectly acceptable to use iris family plants that are available locally for your practice.”

This flexible approach honors the true heart of Ikebana, working with nature as it is, wherever you are.