High Country Gardens
Starfish Iris (Ferraria crispa)
The Starfish Iris (Ferraria crispa) presents a unique floral display with velvety purple spots and ruffled petals, reminiscent of sea creatures. This South African native blooms from late winter to early spring, emitting a delightful vanilla fragrance that attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. In warmer climates, it reliably returns each spring, forming clumps. Reaching 16-18 inches tall, it's deer resistant and prefers full sun and well-draining soil. For cooler regions, it's an excellent choice for containers, offering a touch of exotic beauty.
$27.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.4
/ 5
Category Rank
2339
/ 2844
#2339 in Flowers
Price vs Category Average
-31%
Below average
USDA Hardiness Zones
910
/ ,
Who it's for
- Exotic, Ruffled Blooms
- Excellent Container Specimen
- Intriguing Fragrance
Who should skip it
- Limited Cold Tolerance
- Ephemeral Bloom Period
- Polarizing Scent and Color
Key Specs
USDA Hardiness Zones
9, 10
Mature Height
16-18 inches
Plant Life Cycle
Perennial
Flower Type
Iris
Sun Exposure
Full Sun
Bloom Season
Spring
Planting Season
Spring, Summer
Deer Resistance
Deer Resistant
Features
- Unique velvety purple spotted flowers
- Sweet vanilla fragrance
- Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies
- Long bloom time
- Deer resistant
- Suitable for containers in colder zones
- Returns annually in suitable climates
- Unusual ruffled petal formation
What customers say
The Starfish Iris captivates buyers with its truly unique design, often described as otherworldly and striking. The primary appeal is the sheer novelty and visual impact of the blooms. Reliability in growth, however, is a consistent theme. While the bulbs are generally high quality upon arrival, successful flowering requires specific care and climate adaptation. Gardeners who master these conditions find the effort highly rewarding, praising the plant for its exceptional beauty and rarity, confirming its status as a collector's item.
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$28