About
Ipheion uniflorum, spring starflower, is a bulbous perennial producing narrow, onion-scented, strap-shaped, grey-green leaves in winter and solitary, star-shaped, pale-silvery-blue or whitish flowers to 4 cm across on stems 15�20 cm in late winter and spring. A charming and reliable bulb for naturalising in grass or a well-drained border front.
About the genus
Ipheion are small, bulbous perennials with onion-scented, narrowly strap-shaped, grey-green leaves and sweet-scented, star-shaped flowers in late winter and spring. Excellent for naturalising in grass or a sunny, well-drained border.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden, Mediterranean climate plants, City and courtyard gardens
Native toArgentina to Uruguay
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationPlant 8cm deep in autumn in moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil that does not dry out. Provide protective winter mulch in colder areas. In containers best grown in peat-free, loam-based compost with added leaf mould and grit. Under glass grow in bright filtered light
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe or in spring. Propagate by division in summer when dormant
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free