Star of Bethlehem
ornithogalum umbellatum
Also known as: ["Crown of the World","Sleeping Beauty"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial with star-shaped white flowers and linear leaves, native to Europe and parts of 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 umbellatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; a cactus or succulent mix can also be used.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead foliage is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only 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; adjust exposure based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, ensure it receives ample bright light without direct sun exposure.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid sudden light changes; provide shade during peak summer hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; avoid overwatering, especially during dormancy; ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) during dormancy; avoid extreme heat or cold.
Monitor temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; adjust watering based on temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when the plant is actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a fertilizer with micronutrients for optimal health.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs or offsets; stem cuttings can also be used but are less common.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offsets from the mother bulb.
- Plant in a new pot at the same depth.
- Water lightly and place in indirect light.
- For cuttings, take a healthy stem, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, and keep moist.
Best Time: Spring, when the plant is emerging from dormancy and actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for bulb division; moistened sphagnum moss for stem cuttings.
Hormone
Not necessary for bulb division; rooting hormone can be used for stem cuttings to encourage root development.
Timeline
Bulb division can be done immediately with quick establishment; stem cuttings may take 4–6 weeks to root and several months to establish.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, small pots, well-draining soil, rooting hormone (optional), misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Ensure bulbs are firm and healthy before division; use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain humidity for cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off flower stalks at the base after blooming; trim dead or yellowing leaves close to the bulb.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing spent flower stalks and dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance and encourage new growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Check for dead or damaged foliage; use clean tools; prune after flowering; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, just before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot that is 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant from its pot; loosen any tangled roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the bulb becomes crowded; beneficial for rejuvenation and larger blooms.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom but avoid leaving the plant sitting in water; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during spring and summer, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce watering significantly in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing or browning leaves; stunted growth; bud drop; wilting despite adequate watering.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage and slow metabolic processes, leading to poor growth or death if prolonged.
Solution: Move the plant to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap in cold climates; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, and premature dormancy, reducing overall vigor.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; ensure adequate watering without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicOrnithogalum umbellatum is toxic to cats due to the presence of saponins and cardiac glycosides. These compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems, potentially leading to life-threatening conditions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe plant contains toxic substances that can cause severe gastrointestinal and cardiovascular issues in dogs. The toxins disrupt normal bodily functions and can lead to serious health complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicOrnithogalum umbellatum contains toxic compounds, including saponins and cardiac glycosides, which can cause significant physiological effects upon ingestion. These compounds interfere with cellular processes and can lead to severe gastrointestinal and cardiovascular disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Star of Bethlehem toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Star of Bethlehem?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, especially during dormancy.
Q: Does Star of Bethlehem attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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