Spring Starflower (Ipheion uniflorum 'Jessie') is a delicate bulb from Argentina and Uruguay that produces charming star-shaped flowers in shades ranging from almost white to violet blue. Growing just 3 to 6 inches tall, it blooms in April with pleasantly fragrant flowers that make excellent cut stems, and its grass-like foliage emits an oniony aroma when brushed. Hardy in zones 5 through 9, this bulb is nearly foolproof to grow, naturalizing readily by offsets and self-seeding once established.
Partial Sun
Moderate
5-9
6in H x 6in W
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Moderate
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Each bulb sends up multiple flowering stems crowned with solitary, six-pointed stars that carry a mild spicy fragrance. The species was once known as Triteleia uniflora and has proven itself one of the easiest bulbs to establish in gardens. Its rapid naturalization means a small planting multiplies into a generous spring display year after year with virtually no intervention required.
Spring Starflower is grown primarily to naturalize in lawns, meadows, and informal garden settings where its bulbs can spread freely. Its fragrant, long-lasting flowers are valued for cutting, and the ease with which it establishes makes it a favorite for rock gardens and borders where minimal maintenance is desired.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Plant bulbs outdoors in fall 2 to 3 inches deep and space them 2 to 4 inches apart in average, medium, well-drained soil. They can be planted in full sun to partial shade.
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“Spring Starflower is native to the grasslands of Argentina and Uruguay, where it evolved as a spring ephemeral adapted to temperate climates. The species was historically classified as Triteleia uniflorum before taxonomic revision placed it in the genus Ipheion. Its common name reflects its appearance and flowering season; the specific epithet uniflorum simply means 'one flower,' referring to the solitary blooms that crown each stem.”