Ipheion Value Pack - 200 bulbs p-pack

Ipheion, also known as Spring Starflower, is a low-maintenance, fragrant, spring-flowering bulb belonging to the Amaryllidaceae family. It produces delicate star-shaped flowers in shades of blue, white, or lilac, making it an excellent choice for borders, rock gardens, and containers.

1. Best Growing Conditions

Climate:

• Thrives in Mediterranean, temperate, and semi-arid climates.

• Well-suited to Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal.

• Tolerates mild frost and is drought-resistant once established.

Sunlight:

• Prefers full sun to light shade (at least 4—6 hours of sunlight per day).

Soil Requirements:

• Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil is ideal.

• pH: 6.0—7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).

• Improve heavy clay soils with compost and coarse sand for better drainage.

2. Planting Ipheion Bulbs

Best Planting Time:

• Autumn (March—May) for spring flowering (August—October).

Depth & Spacing:

• Plant 5—7 cm deep and 5—10 cm apart.

• Closer planting creates a naturalized effect in garden beds.

Container Growing:

• Use shallow to medium-depth pots (15—20 cm deep) with well-draining potting mix.

• Ensure good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

3. Watering & Care

Watering:

• Water moderately after planting.

• Keep soil evenly moist during the growing season (autumn to spring).

• Reduce watering after flowering, as plants enter dormancy.

Fertilizing:

• At planting: Apply a balanced bulb fertilizer (5-10-10 or 3-5-5).

• Once buds appear, feed again with a potassium-rich fertilizer to support flowering.

Mulching:

• Apply a thin layer of organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

4. Flowering & Dormancy

Bloom Time:

• Flowers from August to October.

• Produces fragrant, star-shaped blooms that attract pollinators.

After Flowering Care:

• Allow the foliage to die back naturally—this helps bulbs store energy for the next season.

• Stop watering as bulbs enter summer dormancy.

Lifting & Storing Bulbs (Optional):

• Ipheion bulbs can stay in the ground year-round.

• In very wet summer regions, bulbs can be lifted after dormancy and stored in a dry, cool place until replanting in autumn.

5. Pests & Diseases

Common Pests:

• Aphids & thrips — Can be controlled with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

• Snails & slugs — Use organic traps or deterrents.

Disease Issues:

• Bulb rot — Avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage.

• Leaf spot & rust — Improve air circulation and remove infected leaves.

6. Propagation

By Bulbs (Easiest Method):

• Ipheion bulbs multiply naturally, forming small offsets.

• Every 2—3 years, divide and replant offsets in autumn.

By Seeds (Slow & Rarely Used):

• Can be grown from seed but takes several years to flower.

7. Companion Planting

• Pairs well with Freesias, Anemones, Dutch Iris, and Muscari.

• Ideal for rock gardens, borders, woodland gardens, and containers.

Conclusion

Ipheion is a low-maintenance, water-wise bulb that thrives in South African gardens. With autumn planting, full sun, and well-draining soil, you'll enjoy delicate, starry blooms every spring!