Orange Star Plant
ornithogalum dubium
Also known as: ["Star of Bethlehem","Finger Plant"]
Overview
A succulent plant with bright orange star-shaped flowers and fleshy green leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Ornithogalum |
| Botanical Name: | Ornithogalum dubium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when leaves turn yellow.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning to remove dead or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to direct light to prevent scorching; move indoors during extreme heat or cold.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in dormancy
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in dormant periods.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with added perlite
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extremes.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in dormancy
Never fertilize dry soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of offsets (bulbils) at the base of the plant.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings or separate offsets.
- Let cuttings callous for a day.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Offsets establish in 4–6 weeks; stem cuttings root in 3–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base; trim leaves just above the soil line.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower spikes and yellowing leaves to encourage new growth and maintain appearance.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove dead parts; avoid cutting healthy growth; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and bloom.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture without saturating the leaves; allow excess water to drain completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing, wilting, or stunted growth in response to stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots during cold snaps; avoid drafty areas.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or wilt; growth may slow under excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; ensure adequate water.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicOrnithogalum dubium is toxic to cats, with the bulb being particularly hazardous. The plant contains toxins that can cause severe gastrointestinal irritation and other adverse effects, posing a risk to feline health.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe bulb and other parts of Ornithogalum dubium are toxic to dogs, containing compounds that can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and other systemic effects. Ingestion may result in significant discomfort and potential health risks.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicOrnithogalum dubium contains toxic compounds, including saponins, which can cause gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects upon ingestion. The plant's tissues, particularly the bulb, are known to elicit toxic responses in humans.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ornithogalum dubium toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does this plant require direct sunlight?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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