About
A clump-forming bulbous perennial to 10cm high with narrow, basal, semi-erect leaves that smell of onions if damaged. Short flower stems bear perfumed, star-shaped, deep blue flowers up to 4cm across with a darker stripe down the centre of each petal in spring.
About the genus
Ipheion are small bulbous perennials with onion-scented, narrowly strap-shaped leaves and sweet-scented star-shaped flowers in late winter and spring
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Coastal, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
FragranceFlower, Foliage
Care notes
CultivationPlant 8cm deep in autumn in moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil that does not dry out. Prefers a sheltered situation in dappled sunlight. Provide protective winter mulch in colder areas
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to damage by slugs and snails
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free