bulb corm tuber RHS Award

Rolf Fiedler Starflower

Ipheion peregrinans 'Rolf Fiedler'

The Story

Plant Bio

Ipheion uniflorum 'Rolf Fiedler' is a small bulbous perennial with narrow, grass-like, onion-scented leaves and solitary, star-shaped, sky-blue flowers in spring.

This cultivar is noted for its particularly large, deep violet-blue flowers compared to the species.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides early spring blooms with fragrant, star-shaped flowers, brightening gardens after winter.

Easy to grow and naturalize, requiring minimal maintenance.

Supports early pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

6 inches

Width

4 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South America

Toxicity

Low toxicity; can cause mild stomach upset if ingested.

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck bulbs 3 inches deep in well-draining soil in early fall.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around bulbs.
Mist foliage regularly during growing season for optimal growth.
Thin out overcrowded clusters after foliage dies back in late spring.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote blooming.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years for vigorous growth.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained soil with full to partial sun for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water moderately during active growth 🌱
Provide bright, indirect sunlight
Feed with a balanced fertilizer in spring

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot ❌
Do not plant in heavy clay soil without amendment ❌
Refrain from disturbing bulbs during dormancy

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Spring-blooming borderWoodland garden accentNaturalized meadow

Companion Plants

Chionodoxa Scilla CrocusSnowdrops Grape Hyacinth

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Rolf Fiedler Starflower questions

What zones can Rolf Fiedler Starflower grow in?

Rolf Fiedler Starflower is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Rolf Fiedler Starflower deer resistant?

Yes — Rolf Fiedler Starflower is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Rolf Fiedler Starflower bloom?

Rolf Fiedler Starflower typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Rolf Fiedler Starflower need full sun?

Rolf Fiedler Starflower does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Rolf Fiedler Starflower drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Rolf Fiedler Starflower handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.