Narbonne Star-of-Bethlehem
ornithogalum narbonense
Also known as: ["Star-of-Bethlehem","Narbonne Hyacinth"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial with star-shaped white flowers and linear leaves, native to the Mediterranean region.
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 narbonense |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; cactus or bulb-specific mix works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering; annually in fall to tidy up.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun during peak heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly 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 mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged cold.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering; stop feeding in dormant periods; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs or offsets; occasionally by seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offsets from the parent bulb.
- Plant at the same depth as the parent.
- Water lightly and provide warmth.
Best Time: Late summer or early fall, after flowering and before dormancy.
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 be planted directly in the garden.
Hormone
Not necessary for bulb division; optional for seeds.
Timeline
Offsets may take 1–2 years to mature; seeds take 1–3 years to flower.
Tools Needed
Garden trowel, clean knife, potting mix.
Quick Tips
Plant offsets immediately after division; ensure bulbs are not crowded; provide consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base; cut leaves back to the bulb if they yellow.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove spent flower stalks to encourage bulb development; trim yellowing leaves in autumn.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Remove dead flowers; trim yellowing leaves; clean tools before use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall, after flowering.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure bulbs are not overcrowded.
Method
Gently lift bulbs; remove old soil; replant at the same depth in fresh, well-draining mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when bulbs become crowded; best when the plant is dormant.
Checklist
Check for crowded bulbs; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after 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 completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or leaf burn (heat stress); stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage; foliage can turn yellow or brown.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid watering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow; soil dries out faster.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicOrnithogalum narbonense is toxic to cats, with the bulb, leaves, and flowers containing compounds that can cause severe gastrointestinal and systemic toxicity. Cats are particularly sensitive to these toxins.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe bulb, leaves, and flowers of Ornithogalum narbonense are toxic to dogs due to the presence of saponins and other irritant compounds. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal upset and other systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicOrnithogalum narbonense contains toxic compounds, primarily saponins and alkaloids, which can cause significant physiological distress upon ingestion. These compounds interfere with cellular functions and can lead to systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ornithogalum narbonense 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 between waterings, especially during dormancy.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its star-shaped flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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