Star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Star of Bethlehem on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asparagaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Indirect light
- Temperature: 10–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Star of Bethlehem
Ornithogalum umbellatum, commonly known as Star-of-Bethlehem, is a perennial bulbous plant belonging to the Asparagaceae family. It is distinguished by its delicate, star-shaped white flowers with a green stripe on the underside of each petal, grouped in clusters. It is ideal for rock gardens, path borders, or naturalizing in lawns, where its cheerful flowers herald the arrival of spring.
Native range
Mediterranean region of Europe, North Africa, and Southwest Asia.
Care tips
It requires full sun to partial shade for abundant flowering and well-drained soil, as waterlogging is its main enemy. Watering should be moderate during growth and flowering, drastically reducing it once the foliage begins to yellow and goes dormant. A common mistake is overwatering during its dormancy period, which can lead to bulb rot.
How to save a dying Star of Bethlehem
- Warning signs
- Yellow or brown, soft leaves, drooping stems. Lack of flowering or premature wilting flowers.
- First aid
- Check the soil. If waterlogged, remove plant, gently clean roots, remove rotten parts, and repot in dry, well-draining soil. If dry, water moderately.
- What kills it
- Overwatering, especially in winter, which rots the bulb. Also, lack of adequate light or extreme temperatures.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the bulb is not completely rotted. Act quickly at the first signs of rot.