Iris ensata is an erect rhizomatous herbaceous perennial growing to 80 cm (31 in) tall, with strap-shaped leaves.

Iris ensata is extensively grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks throughout the temperate zones of the world.

It is possible that it was introduced into Japanese culture in ancient times, in association with rice farming.

hortensis, I. kaempferi) grows in the wet land and is the most extensively cultivated variety in Japanese gardens.

Perhaps the most influential breeders in the United States have been Arlie Payne of Indiana, the Marx family of Oregon, Arthur Hazzard of Michigan, and Currier McEwan of Maine.