Garden Star-Of-Bethlehem

(Ornithogalum umbellatum)

Garden Star-Of-Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Ornithogalum umbellatum, commonly known as Garden Star-Of-Bethlehem, is a deciduous perennial herb native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, grasslands, and meadows in Southern and Western Europe. It typically grows to a height of 0.5-1 feet and a width of 1-2 feet. The plant features clusters of star-shaped flowers with white petals and a green stripe on the reverse when closed; these blooms are particularly showy in the spring and early summer, opening in the late afternoon. The foliage is narrow and grass-like, adding to its ornamental value.

Garden Star-Of-Bethlehem is appreciated for its delicate flowers and adaptability to different garden settings. It is often used in rock gardens, borders, and as a ground cover. While it prefers moist conditions in winter and spring, it is drought-tolerant during the summer months. For optimal growth, it should be planted in full sun to part shade and can thrive in a range of soil types with varying drainage. It is hardy to USDA zones 4–9 and can be grown indoors. However, it can become invasive, spreading by underground bulbs. To prevent unwanted spread, it is advisable to grow it in containers or restricted areas.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Potted Plant, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands, grasslands, and meadows in Southern and Western Europe

Other Names

Common Names: Star Of Bethlehem, Grass Lily, Nap-At-Noon, Eleven-O’Clock Lady, Sleepydick, Kost-Fuglemælk, Dame Donze Heures, Gewone Vogelmelk, Pyrenees Star Of Bethlehem, Star-Of-Bethlehem

Scientific Names: , Ornithogalum umbellatum, Ornithogalum angustifolium, Ornithogalum vulgare, Ornithogalum umbellatum subsp. campestre, Ornithogalum minus, Ornithogalum nanum, Ornithogalum garganicum, Ornithogalum boraeanum, Ornithogalum umbellatum var. angustifolium

GBIF Accepted Name: Ornithogalum umbellatum L.