Star of Bethlehem

Star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum arabicum) should be watered deeply and infrequently. Water the plant until moisture begins to seep out of the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot. Allow the soil medium to dry to a depth of 1-2 inches before watering again. Star of Bethlehem should be watered every 10-14 days during the growing season from late Spring to early Fall. During the Winter, reduce watering to once a month or less, depending on the temperature and amount of light the plant receives.

Star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum arabicum) should be grown in a sunny location, where it will receive at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day. During the warmest months, mid-morning to early afternoon sun is ideal for this plant, while it appreciates some afternoon shade in the hottest months. Morning sunshine and bright, indirect light in the afternoon is also beneficial for this species.

Star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum arabicum) should be pruned once a year, beginning late winter or early spring. Start by pruning off dead or damaged stems from the main stems of the plant. Cut the stems back to just above the soil line. Remove any weak, overcrowded stems or flower stalks that have finished flowering from the plant, as these will not bloom well in future years. Prune lightly, removing no more than ¼ of the plant’s height or width at each pruning session. This will help encourage a bushier plant that will produce more blooms throughout the season.