HybridContainer OK

Iris Bearded Immortality

Iris germanica 'Immortality'

a close up of a purple and yellow flower

A breakthrough reblooming bearded iris that produces pristine white flowers in both late spring and again in fall, extending the iris season dramatically. The pure white standards and falls are accented with a bright yellow beard, creating a classic and elegant display. This reliable rebloomer has won numerous awards and is considered one of the best white iris varieties for consistent performance.

Harvest

N/Ad

Days to harvest

πŸ“…

Sun

Full sun

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Zones

5–9

USDA hardiness

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Height

18-30 inches

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Planting Timeline

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Start Indoors
Transplant
Direct Sow
Start Indoors
Transplant
Direct Sow

Showing dates for Iris Bearded Immortality in USDA Zone 7

All Zone 7 flower β†’

Zone Map

Click a state to update dates

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Iris Bearded Immortality Β· Zones 5–9

What grows well in Zone 7? β†’

Growing Details

Difficulty
Easy to moderate
Spacing18-24 inches
SoilWell-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil
pH6.5-7.5
WaterModerate water, drought tolerant once established
SeasonPerennial, blooms late spring and fall
FlavorN/A
ColorPure white with bright yellow beard
Size5-6 inch blooms

Zone-by-Zone Planting Calendar

ZoneIndoor StartTransplantDirect SowHarvest
Zone 3April – MayJune – JulyJune – Augustβ€”
Zone 4March – AprilJune – JuneJune – Julyβ€”
Zone 5March – AprilMay – JuneMay – Julyβ€”
Zone 6March – AprilMay – JuneMay – Julyβ€”
Zone 7February – MarchApril – MayApril – Juneβ€”
Zone 8February – MarchApril – MayApril – Juneβ€”
Zone 9January – FebruaryMarch – AprilMarch – Mayβ€”
Zone 10January – JanuaryFebruary – MarchFebruary – Aprilβ€”

Complete Growing Guide

Soil pH: Alkaline (>8.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0). Drainage: Good Drainage, Moist. Water: EYE-riss. Height: 1 ft. 6 in. - 2 ft. 6 in.. Spread: 1 ft. 0 in. - 2 ft. 0 in.. Spacing: Less than 12 inches, 12 inches-3 feet. Maintenance: Medium. Propagation: Division. Regions: Coastal, Mountains, Piedmont.

Harvesting

The fruits is a brown capsule and measures 2 inches long and 1 inch wide.

Color: Brown/Copper. Type: Capsule. Length: 1-3 inches. Width: < 1 inch.

Harvest time: Fall

Bloom time: Spring, Summer

Storage & Preservation

Fresh-cut iris stems last 5-7 days in arrangements when properly conditioned. Recut stems under running water and place in clean vases with fresh water plus flower food. Change water every 2-3 days and trim stems slightly each time. For preserving the flowers, iris petals can be dried using silica gel for craft projectsβ€”bury flowers completely in silica gel for 3-4 days until papery. Seeds can be stored in paper envelopes in a cool, dry location for 2-3 years, though germination rates decline over time. Rhizomes can be stored short-term (2-3 weeks) in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area if you need to delay planting after dividing.

History & Origin

Origin: North temperate America, Europe, Asia

Advantages

  • +Disease resistance: Deer, Rabbits

Considerations

  • -Toxic (Roots, Sap/Juice, Seeds): Low severity
  • -Causes contact dermatitis

Companion Plants

Plant Together

+

Lavender

Repels pests like aphids and thrips, both prefer similar well-draining soil conditions

+

Allium

Natural pest deterrent against iris borers and aphids, blooms complement iris timing

+

Catmint

Deters aphids and ants, provides ground cover without competing for nutrients

+

Salvia

Attracts beneficial insects, similar sun and drainage requirements

+

Ornamental Grasses

Provides structural support and wind protection, complementary root systems

+

Sedum

Excellent drainage companion, helps prevent root rot in iris rhizomes

+

Peonies

Similar care requirements, sequential blooming extends garden interest

+

Daylilies

Complementary bloom times, both thrive in similar growing conditions

Keep Apart

-

Black Walnut

Produces juglone toxin that inhibits iris growth and can cause yellowing and death

-

Mint

Aggressive spreader that competes for space and nutrients, can overwhelm iris rhizomes

-

Hostas

Requires more moisture and shade, creates overly humid conditions promoting iris soft rot

Nutrition Facts

Calories
15kcal(1%)
Protein
1.03g(2%)
Carbs
3.28g(1%)
Fat
0.07g(0%)
Vitamin C
28mg(31%)
Vitamin A
97mcg(11%)
Iron
0.7mg(4%)
Calcium
39mg(3%)
Potassium
173mg(4%)

Per 100g serving. % Daily Value based on 2,000 calorie diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central (FDC #169270)

Pests & Disease Resistance

Resistance

Good resistance to iris borer, moderate soft rot resistance

Common Pests

Iris borer, thrips, aphids, slugs

Diseases

Soft rot, leaf spot, crown rot in poorly drained soil

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Iris Immortality take to bloom after planting?β–Ό
Iris 'Immortality' typically blooms the first spring after planting if you plant healthy rhizomes in late summer (July-September). Spring-planted rhizomes may not bloom until the following year, as they need time to establish strong root systems. First-year blooms may be smaller, with full-sized flowers appearing in the second year.
Is Iris Immortality good for beginners?β–Ό
Yes, 'Immortality' is excellent for beginners due to its reliable blooming, good pest resistance, and forgiving nature. The main requirement is well-drained soilβ€”if you can provide that, this iris is quite easy to grow. Its reblooming habit also gives novice gardeners two chances per year to enjoy success.
Can you grow Iris Immortality in containers?β–Ό
Iris 'Immortality' grows well in large containers (minimum 18 inches wide and deep) with excellent drainage holes. Use a well-draining potting mix and place containers where they'll receive morning sun. Container plants need more frequent division (every 2-3 years) and consistent watering during growing season, but less fall rebloom in hot climates.
When should I plant Iris Immortality rhizomes?β–Ό
Plant 'Immortality' rhizomes in late July through early September for best results. This timing allows rhizomes to establish strong root systems before winter while avoiding hot summer stress. In very cold zones (3-4), plant by mid-August to ensure adequate establishment before hard freezes.
Why isn't my Iris Immortality reblooming in fall?β–Ό
Fall rebloom requires adequate summer moisture, established clumps (2+ years old), and proper fertilization timing. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers after mid-summer, ensure consistent watering during hot weather, and provide full sun. Very hot summers or overcrowded clumps can also reduce fall bloomingβ€”divide every 3-4 years to maintain vigor.
How do you divide Iris Immortality?β–Ό
Divide 'Immortality' 4-6 weeks after spring bloom ends (typically July). Lift entire clumps, wash off soil, and cut rhizomes into sections with healthy fans of leaves. Each division should have firm, pest-free rhizome pieces. Trim foliage to 6-inch fans and let cut surfaces dry in shade for several hours before replanting to prevent rot.

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