Sharing is manage !
In many places , Star of Bethlehem or ophidian flower ( scientifically bonk as Ornithogalum ) is considered trespassing , as it rapidly overtake peak beds . However , as long as you keep it in good order contained , there are plenty of reasons to train it in your garden .
In fact , it can be almost impossible to get rid of the Star of Bethlehem once it ’s fructify origin , since it will speedily overtake other industrial plant in flush beds . That ’s really too unfit , since this industrial plant is one that is genuinely remarkable to lay eyes on . It give rise legion star - shaped heyday on tall stems above draping foliation .
Because of its trespassing nature , many gardeners choose to plant it in container . you’re able to also grow this plant life near ahead of time - blooming flowers like genus Dianthus and false hellebore . In some places , it ’s advised that you do n’t plant Star of Bethlehem at all , since it ’s considered noxious or even invasive ( Alabama is one such instance ) .
Varieties of Ornithogalum Plant You Can Grow
Star of Bethlehem is technically an entire genus of plants , a genus that is named as such for its star - mould blossom that depend like the Star of Bethlehem that appeared in the biblical report of Jesus ’ parentage .
There are many kind of specie within this genus , up to 300 , in fact ! However , many phytologist only recognise about 150 link metal money of this flower .
Because it is such a large genus , it has been divided into multiple subgenera – 15 total . The best - hump species are as follows .
Ornithogalum umbellatum
Perhaps the most common species of Star of Bethlehem , this bulbous perennial has middling blanched flowers with gullible borderline that bloom in the recent spring or late summer .
Interestingly , this plant will farm blooming flowers only when the conditions is warm enough and there is plenty of sunlight . If the weather is dull and dreary , the flower will remain closed , only establish off their light-green outside .
These are the most incursive kinds of flowers and should only be institute where they will not crowd together out other industrial plant .
Ornithogalum magnum
Ornithogalum magnum , sometimes known as the Arabian Star Flower , is native to the Mediterranean and is very similar in appearance to Ornithogalum umbellatum .
This variety of flower grow up to 15 sweet - odorous star - shape flowers . These incline to be snowy and are about two inch across , bloom in the late leaping or former summertime calendar month . They develop best when summers remain warm and dry .
Ornithogalum dubium
This is a less - known type . Also a bulbous perennial , it produce a turgid cluster of up to 25 jaundiced or bright orangish flowers for each one . genus Ornithogalum dubium is commonly have it off as the “ Sun Star ” or “ Orange Star ” due to its vibrant orangish flowers that resemble miniature stars .
This orange star works spring up well in track peak gardens as well as in rock garden . The orange star plant naturalise easily but do n’t commonly take over the entire space .
Ornithogalum thyrsoides
This kind is aboriginal to South Africa . It also produce white flowers but these lean to be tinged with fleeceable in the center . They bloom in previous spring or former summer and are good for using cut flowers as well as in containers or borders .
Ornithogalum nutans
Sometimes referred to as the Dropping Star of Bethlehem , this flora is found in Turkey and Bulgaria . It produces white flowers that are shaped much like bells . These bloom a act earlier , generally in the mid to previous spring .
How to Care for Star of Bethlehem Flower
Planting
If you do resolve to found Star of Bethlehem , the near meter to do so is in the gloaming . Plant your blossom bulbs about two inches apart at a depth of five inch to the bulb ’s bag .
Unless you are planting in a container , a good way to address this plant ’s semi - invasive nature is to plant the lightbulb in an area that is describe and adjoin so the bulbs ca n’t spread outdoors of the beds . You should also deadhead the bloom before seeds develop so that the plant life does not macerate energy on seed development versus blossom development .
Otherwise , growing Star of Bethlehem is relatively easy . It just needs fertile dirt ! you may divide bulbs to propagate it easily once you ’re ’ ready to do so .
Watering
The Star of Bethlehem plant requires temperate lachrymation to thrive . Water the flora when the top inch of soil feel dry to the touch , typically every 7 - 10 days during the growing time of year .
cater enough pee to keep the soil moist , allow for excess water system to run out away freely from the mint ’s drain holes . During the industrial plant ’s torpid period , reduce watering frequency to once every 2 - 3 weeks to forbid waterlogging and rotting .
Avoid overwatering , as soggy soil can lead to root rot and other moisture - pertain issues . Maintaining coherent moisture levels promote healthy growing and flowering in the Star of Bethlehem plant
Soil Type
These bethlehem bloom fly high in well - draining , sandy grease with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. A territory miscellanea indite of equal part pot land , perlite , and coarse sand supply excellent drainage while allowing air circulation around the roots .
Also , add up organic matter like peat moss or compost can improve the structure and richness of the soil , which helps plant grow strong roots and leaves . It is important to maintain adequate soil moisture for Ornithogalum plant to grow optimally .
Avoid constrict or waterlogged dirt , as they can lead to bulb rot and other wet - related issues . leave well drained soil ensures optimum growing condition for Ornithogalum plants , promote full-bodied growth and fecund unfolding .
Light
Ornithogalum plant prefer bright , indirect light or fond tone for optimal growth and flowering . localize them in a bright localisation where they receive at least six hours of sunlight per twenty-four hour period , such as a south or west - facing window .
While they can tolerate some lineal sunshine , avoid photo to vivid midday full sun , which can scorch their foliage . point them in a gay positioning near window with filmy drape or blinds to permeate the sunlight and prevent folio burn .
Outdoors , bring home the bacon mottled shadiness or shelter them from harsh afternoon sunshine .
Temperature
Star of Betheleme is winter hardy to the United States Department of Agriculture Zone 3 as long as you mulch carefully to keep the bulbs warm during the winter months . In zones 4 to 8 , it can be grown without mulch , although mulching does not smart .
Fertilizing and Pruning
Besides lachrymation every now and then , there is very small you need to do to care for your Star of Bethlehem industrial plant . In fact , fertilizing is not recommended , as it can cause the new growth to spread too far . You also do not need to prune the flora , although you may remove the integral bug if it spreads too much and you find that you need to control its spread any further .
Some people think that cutting back the plant will stop it from overtake the rest of the garden , but this is not the case . To get disembarrass of it , you will need to get rid of the integral flower bulb . Even herbicides wo n’t do the deception – you ’ll have to full withdraw hp lant .
Other Concerns for Star of Bethlehem
There are very few blighter and diseases that are known to afflict Star of Bethlehem , which is one of the reasons why this plant can so easily become invasive .
However , it is significant to note that this flora contains dangerous alkaloids that can be poisonous to animals and livestock , including cats and wiener . Be mindful of this and do n’t constitute the flush if you have pets that like to nibble !
That said , when used correctly , there are some mass who are able to use this flower for medicative design . Historically , Star of Bethlehem was used to treat coughing , fortify cardiovascular functioning , and prevent infection . Other finish have used the flower when boiled and eaten like murphy .
Both the leaves and medulla can be harvested , but be cautious about using them before consulting with your doctor .
FAQs
What is the star - of - Bethlehem plant used for ?
The Star - of - Bethlehem plant ( Ornithogalum umbellatum ) is primarily grown as an cosmetic plant for its fragile white bloom and attractive foliation . However , it has also been used in traditional medicine for various purposes , include plow tegument condition , digestive issues , and respiratory ailments , although its medicinal usance is not common or well - documented .
Is the ace - of - Bethlehem flower poisonous to partake ?
The Star - of - Bethlehem flower is not typically consider extremely toxic to touch , but it is toxic if ingested . All parts of the plant curb toxic chemical compound , including saponin and alkaloid , which can do symptoms such as gastrointestinal upset , vomiting , and diarrhea if consumed .
Is star - of - Bethlehem invasive ?
Star - of - Bethlehem ( Ornithogalum umbellatum ) is look at invasive in many regions where it has been introduced . It can overspread quickly and outcompete aboriginal flora species , peculiarly in grasslands , meadow , and woodland areas . Its ability to give rise big quantities of seed and take shape dense dependency contributes to its incursive potential .
Does Star of Bethlehem smell ?
The flowers of the Star - of - Bethlehem plant do not typically have a strong or noticeable fragrance . They are mainly appreciated for their star - work appearance and delicate white petals rather than their scent .
Up next : Star of Bethlehem Flower Meaning
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