Babiana
ornithogalum candicans
Also known as: ["Star of Bethlehem","Candican Star of Bethlehem"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial with star-shaped white flowers and linear leaves, native to South Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Ornithogalum |
| Botanical Name: | Ornithogalum candicans |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden, border, or container in a sunny 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 bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; cactus or succulent mix works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when leaves yellow.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or damaged foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but prefers shade from harsh afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to monthly 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 pots with drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if soil retains too much water.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoids extremes; prefers cooler temperatures during dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; adjust watering with temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in dormancy
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of offsets or bulbils; occasionally from seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offsets from parent bulb.
- Allow to callus for a day.
- Plant shallowly in new pots.
- Water lightly.
Best Time: After flowering, when bulbs are mature and offsets are well-formed.
Environment
Warm, bright, indirect light; moderate humidity; consistent moisture for newly planted bulbs.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., cactus mix with perlite or sand).
Hormone
Not necessary for division; optional for seeds to encourage germination.
Timeline
Offsets can be planted immediately; bulbs typically flower within 1–2 years.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Ensure offsets have roots before separating; plant at the same depth as the parent; avoid overwatering new plants.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip spent flower stalks at the base; cut yellowing leaves near the bulb.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing spent flowers and yellowing leaves to maintain appearance and redirect energy.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged parts; sanitize tools; prune carefully near bulb; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late winter or early spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches wider than the current one; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove bulb; trim any dead roots; plant in fresh, well-draining soil at the same depth; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when bulbs become crowded; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check bulb condition; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; handle bulb 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, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain freely; 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 for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or leaf drop (heat stress); stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage or leaf discoloration; inhibits flowering.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering during dormancy.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; soil dries too quickly; increased pest susceptibility.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; use shade cloth if outdoors.
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 in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicOrnithogalum candicans is toxic to cats, with the bulb posing the highest risk. The toxic compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal irritation and other adverse effects upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe plant is toxic to dogs, with the bulb being the most dangerous part. Ingestion can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and, in rare cases, more serious systemic effects due to the presence of toxic compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicOrnithogalum candicans contains toxic compounds, including saponins and other irritants, which can cause significant gastrointestinal distress and systemic effects upon ingestion. The bulb is particularly toxic due to higher concentrations of these compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ornithogalum candicans toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Ornithogalum candicans?
A: Water moderately during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Ornithogalum candicans attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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