Star of Bethlehem
Ornithogalum umbellatum
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Average
Hardiness Zone:
4 - 9
Flowers:
White Flowers
Sun:
Full sun,part shade
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Moderate
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Invasive:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Star of Bethlehem prefers well-drained soil and should be kept evenly moist during the growing season. Water the soil around this plant deeply and regularly, providing enough water so that it reaches the plant’s roots. The soil should be allowed to dry slightly between waterings. During the winter months, reduce watering so the soil is just barely moist. Watering once every 2 to 3 weeks should suffice.
sunlight
Star of Bethlehem, Ornithogalum umbellatum, does well when it is provided with 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day, preferably in the morning or late afternoon when the sun is not at its hottest. This plant is not overly picky and will tolerate some dappled shade in the peak of the day. Placing the plant in an outdoor area where it can get direct sunlight at least 5 hours per day will ensure healthy growth and production of flowers.
pruning
Star of Bethlehem should be pruned in early spring before the arrival of new growth. Cut back the foliage by about 1-third and then remove any dead or damaged leaves. Be sure to wear gloves when pruning since the sap can irritate skin. In addition, it’s important to cut just above a leaf node on each stem and avoid cutting into old, woody stems. Pruning too drastically can inhibit the plant’s new growth.
