Bearded Iris 'Tempting Fate' – Dark Neglecta, Purple-Black, Perennial Rhizome

Dramatically dark and impossibly elegant, Bearded Iris 'Tempting Fate' (Iris germanica) is one of the most exciting additions to the dark neglecta color class. Arched pale blue-violet standards provide a striking counterpoint to the lush, ruffled purple-black falls — a near-black amoena of exceptional drama. Vigorous growth and deer resistance make it as easy to grow as it is beautiful to behold.

Plant Details

• Color: Pale blue-violet standards; ruffled purple-black falls (dark neglecta/amoena)
• Growth Habit: Vigorous
• Bloom Time: Mid – late spring
• USDA Zones: 3–10
• Exposure: Full sun
• Deer, Rodent & Rabbit Resistant
• Drought Tolerant: Yes
• No Cold Period Required
• USA Grown

Planting Instructions

• Plant in a full sun, well-drained location. Bearded iris are rhizomes, not bulbs.
• Plant with rhizome tops exposed — roots face downward. In very light soils or hot climates, covering with 1" of soil is acceptable.
• Firm soil around each rhizome and water well to settle.
• Will tolerate less drainage in drier areas.

Care Tips

• Fertilize in early spring and late summer.
• Divide clumps every 3–4 years (August) to maintain vigor.
• Extremely drought tolerant once established.