Iris Immortality Reblooming Bearded Iris

The American Iris Society Honorable Mention 1986; The American Iris Society Award of Merit 1990

Considered one of the best rebloomers, Iris Immortality is an award-winning tall bearded reblooming iris that flowers heavily in late spring to early summer and again in late summer to early fall. The showy pure-white flowers have ruffled petals and creamy white to pale yellow beards. Highly fragrant, the flowers sit atop strong, well-branched stems above attractive sword-like blue-green leaves, with plants rising to about 2 and 3 feet tall at full maturity. The blooms attract pollinators to the garden, especially butterflies, but they also make excellent cut flowers.

An Iris germanica, Immortality is a tall bearded iris with an upright habit and a fast growth rate. An herbaceous semievergreen perennial, Iris Immortality has a rhizomatous root system, so the plant spreads, multiplying slowly to form large clumps over time. If the plants become overcrowded, simply dig them up, divide, and replant. Bearded iris is shown to best effect when grouped or massed in mixed beds, borders, and foundation plantings.

With their hardy nature, bearded irises are easy to grow and virtually trouble free. They grow and bloom best in sunny to partly shady locations that receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day and thrive in most garden soils if they are well-drained. They prefer a neutral to slightly acidic soil pH (6.1-7.2) and consistent moisture; however, they do not like wet feet. Bearded irises are somewhat drought and heat tolerant once established and deer and rabbit resistant.

Tall bearded reblooming irises are bred to have a second bloom, but that is dependent on the location and growing conditions being favorable. Apply a fertilizer, such as Espoma Flower Tone, about 6 weeks before bloom time in both early spring and midsummer to promote healthy bloom cycles.

For more detailed information on caring for your bearded irises, be sure to check out our Iris Care Guide: How to Grow, Plant, and Maintain Iris Plants. Additionally, for advice on selecting the perfect irises for your garden, don't miss our blog on Tips for Choosing the Best Type of Iris Flowers for Your Garden. These resources will provide you with all the tips and tricks you need to ensure your irises thrive and beautify your outdoor space.