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Ipheion uniflorum
Spring starflower
Ipheion uniflorum
Ipheion uniflorum, commonly known as starflower or spring starflower, is a charming, low-growing bulbous perennial native to Argentina and Uruguay. It features star-shaped, fragrant flowers, typically pale blue or white, that bloom in early spring. Its grass-like foliage emits a garlic-like aroma when crushed. It naturalizes easily, forming attractive colonies over time.
CategoryDetails
Plant TypePerennial plant
Estimated Plant Lifespan5 years lifespan
Sun Requirements6+ hours direct sunlight (Full Sun)
Pollination

Method: animal

Notes: Bees and other insects are attracted to the fragrant flowers, facilitating pollination.

Watering Requirements

Method: top water

Frequency: Water thoroughly after planting and when the top inch of soil feels dry. Reduce watering after flowering.

Notes: Ensure good drainage to prevent bulb rot.

Humidity Requirements

Level: moderate

Care InstructionsDeadhead spent flowers to encourage bulb development. Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering; do not cut it off prematurely.
Temperature Range

Min: -15°C

Max: 25°C

Alternative NamesTristagma uniflora, Triteleia uniflora, Tristagma uniflorum

Cultivars

Spring starflower

Price: $23.6
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Mixed

Price: $23.6
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Spring Star Dark Blue

Price: $9.9
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Spring Star Light Blue

Price: $8.9
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Spring Star Mixed

Price: $8.9
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Muscari armeniacum
Garden Grape-hyacinth
Muscari armeniacum
Grape hyacinths bloom around the same time as Ipheion uniflorum, providing a contrasting color and texture. They also prefer similar growing conditions.
Crocus tommasinianus
Woodland crocus
Crocus tommasinianus
Snow Crocus offer early spring color alongside Ipheion, sharing similar sun and soil preferences for a harmonious display.
Vinca minor
lesser periwinkle
Vinca minor

Periwinkle can aggressively spread and outcompete Ipheion uniflorum for space and resources.

Cerastium tomentosum
Snow-in-summer
Cerastium tomentosum

Snow-in-Summer can be overly vigorous and smother smaller plants like Ipheion uniflorum.

Slugs and Snails

Slugs and snails can feed on the foliage and flowers, creating holes and damaging the plant's appearance. Signs include slime trails and chewed leaves.

Aphids

Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can infest the plant, causing stunted growth, distorted leaves, and the secretion of honeydew, which can lead to sooty mold.

Steps:

    • Wait until the foliage has died back in late summer or early autumn.
    • Carefully dig up the clump of bulbs.
    • Gently separate the smaller bulb offsets from the main bulb.
    • Replant the offsets in well-draining soil at the same depth as the original bulb (about 2-3 inches deep), spacing them a few inches apart.
    • Water the newly planted bulbs thoroughly.

Neem Oil

Effective for controlling aphids and other pests. It is a natural insecticide and fungicide.

Diatomaceous Earth

Can be used to control slugs and snails around the base of the plants. It is a natural abrasive that damages their bodies.

Bone Meal

Provides phosphorus to promote strong root growth and flowering.