Narbonne Star-Of-Bethlehem

(Ornithogalum narbonense)

Narbonne Star-Of-Bethlehem (Ornithogalum narbonense)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Ornithogalum narbonense, commonly known as Narbonne star-of-Bethlehem, pyramidal star-of-Bethlehem, and southern star-of-Bethlehem, is a herbaceous perennial plant with underground bulbs. It is native to the Mediterranean region, particularly thriving in open fields, grasslands, and scrub areas. This species typically reaches 40–50 centimeters (16–20 inches) in height, with a maximum of 70 centimeters (28 inches). Ornithogalum narbonense is characterized by its erect flowering stems and linear leaves. Each flower showcases six star-shaped, milky white petals with a pale green central vein, creating a striking contrast. The oval buds are adorned with longitudinal green and white stripes. The six stamens have white filaments topped with yellow anthers, each 4 millimeters (0.16 inches) in size. The plant’s showy flowers bloom from May through June and are pollinated by insects, adding to its value for biodiversity in gardens.

The Narbonne star-of-Bethlehem is valued for its ornamental flowers and is often used in rock gardens, borders, and as cut flowers due to their long vase life. It is relatively low-maintenance, requiring full sun and medium amounts of water. It adapts to a range of soil types, provided they offer slow to fast drainage. While generally disease-free, it can be susceptible to bulb rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. It is important to note that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, so caution should be exercised in gardens accessible to pets and children.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Bulb
  • Height: 1-1.5 feet
  • Width: 0.467-0.7 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Fragrant, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to open fields, grasslands, and scrub areas in the Mediterranean region

Other Names

Common Names: Narbonne Star-Of-Bethlehem, Pyramidal Star-Of-Bethlehem, Bath-Asparagus, Star-Of-Bethlehem, Star Of Bethlehem, Pyrenäen-Milchstern, Betlehemstjerne, Fransk Stjärnlök

Scientific Names: , Ornithogalum arabicum, Ornithogalum narbonense, Loncomelos narbonensis, Loncomelos narbonense, Ornithogalum brachystachys, Ornithogalum pyramidale subsp. narbonense, Ornithogalum brachystylum, Ornithogalum densum, Loncomelos brachystylum

GBIF Accepted Name: Ornithogalum narbonense L.