Star of Bethlehem
ornithogalum thyrsoides
Also known as: ["Chickling Lily","Snake's Head Fritillary"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial with clusters of white, star-shaped flowers on tall stems, native to South Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Ornithogalum |
| Botanical Name: | Ornithogalum thyrsoides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in temperate climates, or as potted indoor plants in cooler regions
- 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 bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can include a small amount of compost for fertility.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering; trim leaves year-round if they show signs of damage.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; focus on removing dead or unsightly parts without drastically cutting back the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light cycles.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near east-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in dormant periods.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost; reduce watering in winter if kept below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing, which can harm bulbs.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs or offsets; occasionally from seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offsets from parent bulb.
- Plant at the same depth as the parent.
- Water lightly and provide warmth.
Best Time: After flowering, when bulbs are mature and offsets are visible.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use bulb trays with moist sand.
Hormone
Not typically required for bulb division.
Timeline
Offsets may take 1–2 years to mature; seed propagation can take 2–3 years to flower.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Plant offsets immediately after division; label new plants for tracking; avoid disturbing roots once established.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower stalks at the base; trim leaves with clean, sharp scissors.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; trim yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain plant health.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged parts; use clean tools; dispose of trimmings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, just before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; loosen roots if pot-bound; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when bulbs become crowded; best when the plant is dormant or just before active growth.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot with fresh soil; handle bulbs carefully; 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 at the base of the plant, allowing water to penetrate the root zone; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
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 organic matter; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning; stunted growth; bud drop; wilting despite adequate water.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage if soil freezes; foliage may turn mushy or black.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch; wilting; reduced flowering; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); cease fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicOrnithogalum thyrsoides is toxic to cats, containing compounds that can cause severe gastrointestinal and systemic toxicity. Cats are particularly sensitive to such toxins, which can lead to serious health complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe plant is toxic to dogs due to the presence of saponins and other toxic glycosides. Ingestion can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and other systemic effects, potentially requiring veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicOrnithogalum thyrsoides contains toxic compounds, including saponins and other glycosides, which can cause significant physiological distress upon ingestion. These compounds interfere with cellular functions and can lead to severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Star of Bethlehem toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Star of Bethlehem?
A: Water moderately during the growing season, reducing water in dormancy.
Q: Does Star of Bethlehem attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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