Ipheion

Ipheions or Spring Stars are delightful bulbous plants that form beautiful starry carpets from May onwards. These South American plants form clumps of linear leaves, similar to coarse grass, with a garlic-like scent. The star-shaped flower, pale violet fading to white, emits a pleasant sweet smell, like honey. There are 10 species, but the most cultivated is Ipheion uniflorum, blue-violet, Ipheion uniflorum 'Charlotte Bishop', a newcomer with mauve-pink flowering, or Ipheion uniflorum 'White Star' with white flowering. Ipheions grow well in light, well-drained soil, even slightly dry in hot and sunny locations. Protect with a light mulch. Divide overcrowded clumps in September. Ipheions are perfect for rockeries, borders, flower beds, paving, tree bases, and pots, accompanied by crocus or narcissus.