Ipheion uniflorum White Star

The Ipheion uniflorum White Star is distinguished by its white and delicately scented flowers, whose naïve star-shaped pattern is highlighted by a green line in the center of each petal. This small, vibrant bulb provides a very long spring flowering, lasting at least 3 months, from February-March to May. This small, hardy bulbous plant, which is deciduous in summer and easy to grow in well-drained soil, quickly naturalizes in the garden. Equally comfortable in the sun or shade, this small perennial, also known as Spring Star, is perfect in a white garden or as ground cover in partially shaded to shaded areas.

The Ipheion uniflorum or Tristagma uniflora is a small bulbous plant with a very simple appearance, native to South America (specifically the meadows and rocky areas of Argentina). It is classified in the lily family, like garlic and onion, among others, a relationship revealed by the particular smell emitted by its foliage when crushed. The 'White Star' cultivar is a lovely variety with pure white flowers. The bulb produces a clump of linear, pale blue-green leaves, with an upright habit, reaching a height of 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8in) when in flower, from the end of summer. They will completely disappear in summer.

In late winter (February-March), solitary flowers emerge, with a honey fragrance, measuring 2 to 4 cm (1 to 2in) in diameter, white in colour with a contrasting black center and yellow stamens. They are directed upwards and take the form of stars, composed of 6 narrow petals. In cold climates, its long flowering begins at the same time as the first crocuses, reaching its peak in March and April, and ending in May with the arrival of summer heat. In mild climates, the flowering period extends from December to May. Very hardy in well-drained soil, this plant requires dry and warm summers. It multiplies very rapidly by producing numerous bulblets.

The Ipheion 'White Star' pairs well with varieties with blue or pink flowers (such as Charlotte Bishop), Muscari armeniacum, Sternbergia lutea, or Zephiranthes candida, for example, other small bulbs that are just as easy to grow. It can also be planted under deciduous shrubs, accompanied by perennials or annuals to create a layered effect in flowering. It spreads in borders, rockeries, at the front of flower beds, along well-exposed walls, or even in pots. Pick the flowers as soon as they bloom if you want to make bouquets. Ipheion is also an excellent ground cover, sometimes even prolific.