Star of Bethlehem: Planting, Care and Characteristics of Ornithogalum umbellatum
The unusual thing about the star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum) is certainly its flowers, which can turn the garden into a white sea of flowers in spring. At the same time, the bulbous plant requires little care and retreats into the ground after flowering until the following spring. In this article you will find everything you need to know about the cultivation and care of the star of Bethlehem from the fact sheet to tips on its uses.
Origin and Characteristics
The star of Bethlehem is a representative of the Ornithogalum genus (Ornithogalum), which in turn is assigned to the asparagus family (Asparagaceae). Ornithogalum can be literally translated as bird’s milk, referring to the white sap that oozes from the plant when injured and which can cause rashes and irritation on the skin. Ornithogalum umbellatum is native to all of Europe, with the exception of Scandinavia and Eastern Europe, or at least has been naturalised for over 500 years. Star of Bethlehem, Ornithogalum umbellatum, is a widespread species of bulb native throughout much of Europe, as well as north-west Africa and south-west Asia.
Every spring, the star of Bethlehem sprouts anew from the bulbs that overwinter in the ground. Narrow-elongated, strong green foliage first appears with white central stripes. The flowering period of the star of Bethlehem begins around April, which lasts about a month. You can then admire the many large and pure-white flowers on shoots 10 to 30cm tall.
Planting Star of Bethlehem: Location and Method
For best results, grow Ornithogalum umbellatum in full sun or partial shade in well-drained soil. As a spring-flowering bulb, the bulbs should be planted in autumn for flowers the following year. The star of Bethlehem is a low-maintenance spring bloomer for light partial shade, for example at the edge of woodlands. If the star of Bethlehem is happy in its location and there is little competitive pressure, it can spread rampantly via bulbs and sometimes seeds to form large, loose stands.
Toxicity and Safety
Is star of Bethlehem poisonous? Like all plants of this species, the star of Bethlehem is highly toxic. Ornithogalum ‘umbellatum’ causes an upset stomach and is harmful if ingested. The plants are therefore also called gardener’s bug or gardener’s death because they spread widely by seeds and runners when the conditions are right. Additionally, the white sap can cause rashes and irritation on the skin.
Garden Ecology and Wildlife
The flowers of the star of Bethlehem have earned it its name. They open only in sunshine, produce nectar and are partially pollinated by insects, which is why they are considered insect-friendly. Ornithogalum ‘umbellatum’ is known for attracting bees and other pollinators. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers and is therefore popular with insects.
Maintenance and Growth Habit
- Flowering: The flowering period lasts about a month, starting around April.
- Spread: It can spread widely, but most of the time they are not considered a nuisance because they still leave enough room for other plants.
- Lifecycle: After flowering, the star of Bethlehem retracts completely; even the leaves first turn yellow and then die.