Also known as Starflower · 107 saves
Ipheion
Ipheion, the genus most gardeners know as starflower. We track 4 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 3 most-saved Ipheion varieties
Browse all 4 Ipheion varieties →
Species of Ipheion
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Ipheion in Sow
Save the Ipheion you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Ipheion
Whats common across all Ipheion varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 4 most-grown of them.
The Ipheion year
- PlantSeptember–November100% of varieties
Plant bulbs 2-3 inches deep in fall for spring bloom
- DivideJune and July100% of varieties
Divide overcrowded clumps every 3-4 years after flowering
- DeadheadMarch and April75% of varieties
Remove spent flowers, but leave foliage intact to recharge the bulb
- FertilizeFebruary75% of varieties
Apply bulb fertilizer as foliage emerges in late winter
- Spring CleanupFebruary75% of varieties
Cut back foliage only after it has completely yellowed and died back
Do
- Water regularly during active growth 🌱
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
- Remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms
- Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Water moderately during active growth 🌱
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot ❌
- Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
- Don’t dig up bulbs unnecessarily
- Refrain from fertilizing after flowering
What goes wrong with Ipheion
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Narcissus Bulb Fly | Bulbs show signs of rot or larvae | Use beneficial nematodes or remove affected bulbs |
| Aphids | Sticky residue on foliage, distorted leaves | Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Generally pest-free | No significant insect damage is typical | Monitor only; the garlic-scented foliage deters most browsing animals |
| Basal Rot | Soft, rotting bulbs with foul smell | Remove and destroy infected bulbs, improve drainage |
| Gray Mold | Gray fuzzy mold on leaves and flowers | Improve air circulation and apply fungicide |
| Fungal Rot | Soft, rotted bulbs with foul smell | Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering |
Making more Ipheion
Division
- Lift clumps in late summer or early fall
- Gently separate bulbs with a sharp knife
- Plant divisions 3 inches deep in prepared soil
- Water thoroughly after planting
- Allow new plants to establish for 1 season before flowering
Bulb division
- Lift bulbs in late summer or fall
- Separate offsets carefully with clean knife
- Replant immediately at same depth
- Water thoroughly after planting
Ipheion questions
How many types of Ipheion are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 4 distinct Ipheion varieties. The most popular — ranked by 107 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Ipheion grow in?
Across its varieties, Ipheion covers USDA Zones 5–9. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Ipheion bloom?
Most Ipheion varieties bloom in early spring, late winter to early spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Ipheion should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.