Ipheion
Ipheion uniflorum
Ipheion produces delicate, star-shaped flowers in shades of white, pink, and blue that emerge from fall-planted bulbs to herald the arrival of spring with sweet fragrance.
Amaryllidaceae (Amaryllis family)
Late winter to early spring (February-April)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: chionodoxas and daffodils also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
As one of the earliest spring bloomers, Ipheion symbolizes hope and the promise of renewal after winter. Its star-shaped flowers represent guidance and light in dark times, while its ability to naturalize represents persistence and the spreading of joy.Botanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Water
Moderate during growing season; tolerates summer drought when dormant
Soil
Well-drained, Moderately fertile, Humus-rich, Wide soil tolerance
Expert Growing Tips
Plant bulbs 2-3 inches deep in fall
Space bulbs 2-4 inches apart for natural look
Naturalizes rapidly by bulb offsets and self-seeding
Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering
One of the easiest bulbs to grow
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Spring bulb gardens
- Rock gardens and alpine gardens
- Naturalized areas and ground cover
- Container gardening
- Under deciduous trees
Traditional Uses
- No significant medicinal uses recorded
- Onion-scented foliage when crushed (related to alliums)
- Primarily grown for ornamental spring display
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Ipheion
When do Ipheion flowers bloom?
Ipheion flowers bloom in late winter to early spring (February-April), making them one of the earliest spring bulbs to flower.
Are spring starflowers easy to grow?
Yes, Ipheion is considered one of the easiest bulbs to grow, naturalizing rapidly and tolerating a wide range of growing conditions.
Do Ipheion bulbs multiply?
Yes, Ipheion bulbs multiply rapidly through bulb offsets and self-seeding, making them excellent for naturalizing large areas.
Why do Ipheion leaves smell like onions?
Ipheion belongs to the amaryllis family and is related to onions and garlic, which explains the onion-like scent when the leaves are crushed.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Chionodoxa
Chionodoxa forbesii (formerly luciliae)
Chionodoxa, known as Glory-of-the-Snow, is among the earliest spring bulbs to bloom, often pushing through snow. These star-shaped flowers symbolize hope, renewal, and the triumph of life over winter.
Daffodil
Narcissus spp. (N. pseudonarcissus, N. poeticus, and others)
Daffodils are cheerful spring bulbs with trumpet-shaped centers and surrounding petals. They symbolize rebirth, new beginnings, and hope after winter.
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Eschscholzia californica
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