Star of Bethlehem
ornithogalum divergens
Also known as: ["Star of Bethlehem","Divergent Star of Bethlehem"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial with star-shaped white flowers and linear leaves, native to Europe.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Ornithogalum |
| Botanical Name: | Ornithogalum divergens |
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":"7–10"}
- 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 coarse sand; can include some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering; remove dead or damaged leaves year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; focus on tidiness rather than shaping.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but prefers shade from intense afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; 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 weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near west-facing windows in summer.
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 cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots drain well.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost; reduce watering in cooler months.
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; adjust care based on seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs or offsets; occasionally from seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offsets from parent bulb.
- Plant in small pots with well-draining soil.
- Water lightly and place in indirect light.
Best Time: Late summer or early fall after flowering has ceased and foliage begins to die back.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can also be propagated in water initially.
Hormone
Not necessary for bulb division; optional for cuttings if using water propagation.
Timeline
Offsets may take 1–2 years to mature; water propagation may show roots in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Ensure offsets have roots before separating; plant at the same depth as the parent bulb; avoid overwatering new plants.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base; trim leaves just above the bulb or soil line.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove spent flower stalks and yellowing foliage to maintain appearance and redirect energy to bulb growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Check for dead or yellowing foliage; sterilize tools; prune carefully to avoid damaging bulb.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall after foliage dies back.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger with drainage holes; ensure it’s not too deep to prevent waterlogging.
Method
Gently remove plant from pot; loosen roots if pot-bound; plant in fresh, well-draining soil at the same depth; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when bulbs become crowded; best when the plant is dormant.
Checklist
Check for crowded bulbs; prepare new pot with fresh soil; handle bulbs carefully; water sparingly 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 away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
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 to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or brown leaf tips (heat stress); stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); foliage may turn yellow or brown.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; reduce watering during cold spells.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
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 divergens is toxic to cats, with the bulb, leaves, and flowers containing compounds that can cause severe gastrointestinal and systemic toxicity. The alkaloids and saponins disrupt normal physiological processes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe bulb, leaves, and flowers of Ornithogalum divergens are toxic to dogs due to the presence of saponins and other irritant compounds. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal upset and systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicOrnithogalum divergens 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 divergens toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Ornithogalum divergens?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, especially during dormancy.
Q: Does Ornithogalum divergens 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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