Ipheion uniflorum 'Wisley Blue' (also called spring starflower)
Ipheion
uniflorum
'Wisley Blue'
Bulbous perennial, closely related to Alliums. Grown for sweet scented blue flowers that open in late winter and spring, they provide welcome early colour. I. uniflorum 'Wisely Blue' has a slightly larger flower and wider leaves than I. uniflorum. Goes very well next to red-leaved Heucheras.
Flowers in late winter and spring.
Slightly lax-leaved habit. H: up to 15cm, S: up to 8cm.
Leaves are green and strap-like though slightly curved inwards. Some stand straight whilst others curve. Crushed leaves smell of garlic.
Flower stems are straight and green.
Flowers are scented, star-shaped, with six petals facing outward. Darker at the tips, fading to pale blue/white at the centre, which leads to a funnel. Bright yellow stamens show at the centre.
Sheltered position in dappled sunlight.
Well drained.
Frost hardy.
Mulch bulbs in winter for protection. May need protection from slugs and snails.
By offsets in late summer or early autumn.
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