Gussone's Star of Bethlehem
ornithogalum gussonei
Also known as: ["Star of Bethlehem"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial with linear leaves and star-shaped white flowers, native to Mediterranean regions.
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 gussonei |
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":"10–30°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, sandy loam with added organic matter; cactus or bulb-specific mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering; remove yellowing or dead leaves year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; avoid cutting into healthy foliage or bulbs.
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 direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
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 a mix designed for bulbs or succulents; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) during dormancy promote better blooming.
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; adjust care based on dormancy needs.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn roots; 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 parent bulb.
- Plant in small pots with well-draining soil.
- Water sparingly until established.
Best Time: After flowering, when bulbs are mature and offsets are well-formed.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; protect from direct sun and cold drafts.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can also be propagated in water initially.
Hormone
Not typically required for bulb division; optional for seed propagation.
Timeline
Offsets may take 1–2 years to mature; seeds can take several years to flower.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Handle bulbs carefully to avoid damage; plant offsets at the same depth as the parent bulb; keep soil lightly moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base; trim dead leaves with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing spent flower stalks and dead foliage to maintain tidiness and encourage bulb health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Check for dead or spent parts; use clean tools; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, just before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; loosen tangled roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when bulbs become crowded; best when the plant is actively growing.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; 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 directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture distribution without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain completely; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when 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 soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or stunted growth (heat stress); bud drop or failure to flower.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); can lead to fungal issues in wet conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; reduce watering in cold periods; ensure good air circulation.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or wilt; growth may slow; flowering can be impaired.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; ensure good ventilation.
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 active growth (spring and summer); cease fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicOrnithogalum gussonei is toxic to cats, containing compounds that can cause severe gastrointestinal and systemic toxicity. The effects can be particularly pronounced in cats due to their sensitivity to certain plant toxins.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe plant is toxic to dogs due to the presence of saponins and other toxic compounds that can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and systemic effects. Ingestion can lead to significant discomfort and potential poisoning.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicOrnithogalum gussonei 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 severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ornithogalum gussonei toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Ornithogalum gussonei?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, especially during dormancy.
Q: Does Ornithogalum gussonei 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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