- Botanical name: Ornithogalum umbellatum
- Common name: Star of bethlehem
- Family: Asparagaceae
- Plant Type: Bulb
White
Green
- Key features:
- Attractive to wildlife
- Flowers
- Low maintenance plant
Star of Bethlehem, Ornithogalum umbellatum, is a widespread species of bulb native throughout much of Europe, as well as north-west Africa and south-west Asia. Ornithogalum umbellatum, flowers in April and May and when growing in favourable conditions forms carpets of low-growing foliage, topped with numerous white, starry flowers.
It looks great grown in large drifts on a sunny bank of soil, or used as underplanting for deciduous trees and shrubs.
For best results, grow Ornithogalum umbellatum in full sun or partial shade in well-drained soil. As a spring-flowering bulb, the bulbs should be planted in autumn for flowers the following year.
How to grow Ornithogalum umbellatum
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Plant size
10cm height
10cm spread
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Aspect
South facing, east facing, west facing
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Position in border
Front
- Sun exposure: Dappled shade, full sun, partial shade
- Hardiness: Hardy
- Soil type: Acidic / chalky / alkaline / clay / heavy / moist / well drained / light / sandy
Ornithogalum umbellatum and wildlife
Ornithogalum umbellatum is known for attracting bees and other pollinators. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers.
Attractive to Bees
Does not attract Beneficial insects
Does not attract Birds
Does not attract Butterflies/Moths
Attractive to Other pollinators
Is Ornithogalum umbellatum poisonous?
Ornithogalum umbellatum is harmful if ingested and causes an upset stomach.
Toxic to Cats
Toxic to Dogs
Toxic to Horses
Toxic to Livestock
Toxic to People
No reported toxicity to Birds
Plants that go well with Ornithogalum umbellatum
