Bearing pale blue blossoms on stems reaching 6 inches tall, spring star flower (Ipheion uniflorum) looks delicate. But as one of the easiest bulbs to grow, it tolerates a wide range of soils, takes sun or part shade, and lives for years with little care. It grows in all of California except Sunset climate zones 1a-2a.

Spring star flower looks good planted in drifts, tucked into rock gardens, or slipped between steppingstones. It also does well in containers ― either beneath taller-growing plants or massed by itself ― thriving for four or five years before it needs dividing.

Plant in fall for spring bloom; set bulbs 2 inches deep and 2 inches apart. Water regularly during growth and bloom, then keep the soil fairly dry during summer.