How to Grow Reblooming Iris
Reblooming Iris
Iris × germanica var. remontant
flowerReblooming irises are perennial flowering plants that bloom twice or more per season, typically in spring and fall. They are hybrid varieties of bearded iris bred specifically for repeat flowering capabilities. These elegant flowers add extended color and beauty to gardens over a longer period than standard iris varieties.
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Example Reblooming Iris timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Reblooming Iris
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Reblooming Iris blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Reblooming Iris dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 4-9 are ideal; some varieties perform well in zone 3 with winter protection
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Dormancy/Early Spring Growth
2-4 weeksFoliage emerges as upright sword-like green leaves from the rhizome. Growth is slow initially as the plant awakens from winter dormancy.
Begin light watering as new growth appears. Apply balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) as growth initiates. Remove any dead foliage from the previous year.
Spring Bloom
3-4 weeksTall flower stalks (called scapes) emerge, typically 24-36 inches tall, bearing multiple buds that open sequentially into large, showy flowers with upright petals (standards) and drooping petals (falls).
Stake tall varieties if needed. Deadhead spent flowers daily to promote additional blooms on the same stem. Maintain consistent moisture but avoid overwatering. Enjoy the spring display.
Summer Rest/Transition
6-8 weeksAfter spring bloom fades, foliage remains green but flowers cease. The plant redirects energy to the rhizome, storing reserves for the fall rebloom cycle.
Reduce watering significantly; allow soil to dry more between waterings. This dry period is crucial for triggering fall reblooming. Do not fertilize heavily during summer. Trim back any declining foliage but leave green leaves intact.
Fall Rebloom
3-4 weeksSecondary flower scapes emerge in late summer/early fall, often more compact than spring blooms (12-24 inches), bearing flowers in the same colors and patterns as spring bloom.
Resume moderate watering to support rebloom. Apply low-nitrogen fertilizer (higher in phosphorus/potassium) to encourage flowering. Deadhead spent flowers. Protect late blooms from early frost by monitoring weather.
Late Fall/Winter Dormancy
3-4 monthsFoliage yellows and dies back as temperatures drop. The plant enters full dormancy, with all energy stored in the rhizome underground.
Reduce watering to minimal levels. Do not fertilize. Cut back dead foliage after the first hard freeze. In zones 3-4, apply 2-3 inches of mulch for winter protection. Remove mulch in early spring.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove and destroy affected leaves and rhizomes in late winter. Apply preventive insecticide in late spring. Keep area free of dead foliage where borers overwinter.
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Improve drainage immediately. Remove affected rhizome tissue with a clean knife. Disinfect tools between cuts. Avoid overhead watering. May require fungicide application.
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Remove infected leaves promptly. Ensure good air circulation. Apply fungicide if severe. Water at soil level only, not on foliage.
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Hand-pick early morning or evening. Use copper barriers or slug baits around plants. Remove debris where they hide.
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil during bloom. Remove and destroy infested flowers. Encourage natural predators.
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinaryIris petals can be used as elegant garnish for salads, desserts, and specialty dishes, offering a slightly sweet, floral flavor. The flowers are commonly used in culinary presentations for upscale restaurants and food decoration. [source]
Traditional Herbal Medicine
MedicinalIris roots have been used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for their purported anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. Modern herbalism occasionally incorporates iris preparations, though scientific validation remains limited. [source]
Perfume and Fragrance
HouseholdIris rhizomes produce orrisroot, a fragrant compound used in high-end perfumery, cosmetics, and as a natural fixative in potpourri. The scent is described as earthy, floral, and slightly sweet. [source]
Cut Flowers and Arrangements
CraftReblooming iris flowers are prized by florists and gardeners for cut flower arrangements and floral design. Their tall, architectural form and diverse color range make them stunning focal points in bouquets. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeIris flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, supporting local ecosystems. The extended bloom season of reblooming varieties provides nectar sources across spring and fall. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut iris flowers in early morning when buds are just opening. Cut stems at a 45-degree angle, removing 1/3 of the stem to encourage the plant's vigor. For reblooming varieties, deadhead spent individual flowers daily during bloom cycles to encourage additional flowers on the same scape and to prepare the plant for the next bloom period. Cut flowers last 7-10 days in a vase with fresh water changed every 2-3 days.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The name 'iris' comes from the Greek goddess of the rainbow, Iris, who rode rainbows to deliver messages from the gods—fitting for these colorful flowers that come in nearly every hue imaginable.
- 🌱 Reblooming iris varieties are relatively modern developments; the first reliable rebloomers weren't bred until the 1950s-1960s, making them younger additions to iris hybridization history.
- 🌱 Iris flowers have been symbols of valor, wisdom, and royalty for centuries; the fleur-de-lis, the heraldic symbol of French royalty, is actually a stylized iris flower.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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