Star-of-Bethlehem
hippobroma longiflora
Also known as: ["Star-of-Bethlehem","White Star-of-Bethlehem","Long-flowered Star-of-Bethlehem"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous plant with distinctive white, star-shaped flowers and narrow leaves, native to tropical regions.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Campanulaceae |
| Genus: | Hippobroma |
| Botanical Name: | Hippobroma longiflora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a humid, sheltered area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry conditions, otherwise rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix with organic matter
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; protect from intense afternoon sun; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light patterns.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; monitor for leaf burn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter
pH: 5.5–6.5
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) during dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), indirect light
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth and improve air circulation.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; may become root-bound if not repotted.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity; use orchid bark for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or drop; growth may slow in temperatures above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicHippobroma longiflora is toxic to cats, with the entire plant containing cardiotoxic glycosides that can cause severe health issues upon ingestion. Cats are particularly sensitive to such compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe entire plant of Hippobroma longiflora is toxic to dogs due to the presence of cardiotoxic glycosides. Ingestion can lead to severe gastrointestinal and cardiac distress in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicHippobroma longiflora contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological effects when ingested. The plant is known to contain cardiotoxic glycosides, which can lead to severe cardiac issues and other systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hippobroma longiflora toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun, depending on climate.
Q: How often should I water Hippobroma longiflora?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Campanulaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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