Star Of Bethlehem
Ornithogalum umbellatum
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Pl. 8CEC — Ornithogalum umbellatum
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IOverview
Overview
Star Of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum) is a bulbous perennial that thrives in moist to light soils across Europe and parts of the Mediterranean. Native to Albania, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, and other countries, this plant is known for its edible flowers and roots, making it a valuable addition to gardens and culinary uses. One distinctive feature of Star Of Bethlehem is its light, airy appearance; it grows to about 0.3 meters in height and has a forb/herb habit. Its preference for soil pH between 7 and 7.5, along with its hardiness in zones 6-9, makes it adaptable in various garden settings while also serving as an ornamental plant due to its attractive white star-shaped flowers.
Quick answers
What is Star Of Bethlehem?
Star Of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum) is a bulbous perennial that thrives in moist to light soils across Europe and parts of the Mediterranean.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Star Of Bethlehem thrives in moist, well-drained soils with a pH between 7 and 7.5. It prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil types. This plant is hardy in temperate regions, generally zones 6-9. For optimal growth, it requires partial to full sun. Propagate via bulb division in early spring or fall. Harvest edible parts such as flowers and roots when needed.
Light
7/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
Soil pH
7–7.5
Seasonal calendar
Northern hemisphere · UTC month is September
winterspringsummerautumnwinter
BloomJFMAMJJASOND
For first-time growers
How to grow Star Of Bethlehem for the first time
8steps
Start with Star Of Bethlehem for a simple and rewarding beginner gardening project.
- 1
What you'll need
Star Of Bethlehem bulbs, a small garden fork or trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in autumn, around September to November.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with well-draining soil. Amend the soil with compost if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant bulbs 5-7 cm deep and 10-15 cm apart in groups for best effect.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid rot. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water during dry spells, especially when flowers are present. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
After flowering, cut back spent flower stalks for a tidier appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to mulch.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersRoot
Edible uses: The Star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum) is edible and can be consumed in various forms. The flowers and roots are typically eaten raw or cooked. The bulbs can also be dried for later use. Skip the specifics on preparation to maintain brevity, as detailed culinary methods were not provided.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
21 native · 9 introduced
Distribution
21 native · 9 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 21 native· 9 introduced
Europe16 regions
native (16)AlbaniaAustriaBelgiumBulgariaFranceGermanyHungaryItalyNetherlandsPolandPortugalRomaniaSpainSwitzerlandUkraineUnited Kingdom
Broader regions
native:Yugoslavia
introduced:Maine, Louisiana, District of Columbia, New York, New South Wales, New Zealand South, Newfoundland, North Carolina, Kentucky
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 8cec293f-471b-4551-887c-818c38ba5c76
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