Ipheion uniflorum, commonly known as spring starflower, is a petite, fall-planted bulb that produces sweetly scented, star-shaped flowers in early to mid-spring. Native to South America, it features grass-like foliage and blooms in shades of pale blue, violet, white, or soft pink, often with a subtle honey fragrance.
Growing just 3–6 inches tall, Ipheion thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, making it ideal for rock gardens, borders, containers, and naturalized lawns. Once established, it’s deer- and rabbit-resistant, drought-tolerant, and spreads gently by bulb offsets and self-seeding, forming charming drifts over time.
Despite its delicate appearance, Ipheion is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9 and remarkably low-maintenance. Its early blooms provide a valuable nectar source for pollinators when few other flowers are in bloom.