Star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum magnum)
Ornithogalum magnum, Star of Bethlehem, offers huge racemes of white, star-like flowers in late spring. Ideal for naturalizing in zones 5-8.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
Ornithogalum magnum, commonly known as Star of Bethlehem, is a striking bulbous perennial native to the Caucasus region. Gardeners value this plant for the dramatic display it provides in late spring when its huge, upright pyramidal racemes burst open. Each small, white, star-like flower features six tepals, often with a green stripe on the reverse, creating a sophisticated look.
This Star of Bethlehem typically reaches 1 to 2 feet tall, emerging from a basal clump of grass-like leaves that often begin to recede just before the spectacular blooms open. Unlike some vigorous members of its genus, Ornithogalum magnum is noted for being a modest spreader, making it reliable for defined garden spaces. Planting this perennial adds structure and bright white accents to the late spring garden tapestry.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Asparagaceae
- Plant Type: Bulb
- Native Range: Caucasus
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 5-8
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 1-2 ft
- Spread: 1-2 ft
- Bloom Time: May to June
- Bloom Description: White
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Medium
How to Grow
Plant the bulbs of Ornithogalum magnum in autumn for optimal establishment, though early spring planting is sometimes possible depending on availability. These bulbs thrive in moist, fertile, well-drained soils. Full sun provides the best flowering, but they tolerate partial shade well, especially as summers heat up. They perform particularly well in sandy loams, showing reasonable tolerance for drier conditions once fully established.
Care throughout the growing season is straightforward. Provide medium water, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist during the active spring growth and blooming period. Fertilization is rarely necessary if the soil is fertile, but a balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring can encourage robust blooms. Deadheading spent flower spikes is not strictly necessary for plant health, but it can tidy the appearance as the foliage begins to senesce.
Propagation of this Star of Bethlehem is easily achieved by carefully digging up the bulbs in late summer or fall after the foliage has died back. Separate the offsets (small bulbs) from the main clump and replant them immediately at the appropriate depth. While this variety spreads gently through self-sown seedlings, gardeners will find it retains a much more controlled habit than more aggressive members of the species.
Landscape Uses
The ease of growth and moderate stature of Ornithogalum magnum make it highly recommended for naturalizing in various settings. It integrates beautifully when allowed to naturalize within lawn areas, offering a superb spring show that fades before the lawn needs heavy summer mowing. Furthermore, consider planting large groups within shrub borders or along woodland margins where dappled shade is present.
Its upright racemes provide vertical interest, pairing well with lower-growing spring ephemerals or later-blooming perennials. Planning groupings in meadows or wild areas utilizes the plant’s native affinity for less formal settings. When utilizing Star of Bethlehem in borders, ensure companion plants do not completely smother the slender foliage too early in the season.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
Noteworthy Characteristics
Ornithogalum magnum, commonly known as star of Bethlehem, is a bulbous perennial that is native to the Caucasus Mountains in Georgia. It typically grows to 1-2’ tall (occasionally taller). Numerous, tiny, star-like flowers bloom in late spring to early summer in huge pyramidal upright racemes, with each small flower displaying six white petal-like tepals that often show a green stripe on the reverse. The genus name honorably references the white flowers, derived from the Greek words for “bird” and “milk.”
Tolerances
- Rabbit
- Deer
Potential Problems
This variety of Ornithogalum magnum generally avoids serious insect or disease issues, which is a significant advantage for low-maintenance gardens. The most common cultural problem arises from overly wet conditions. Specifically, poor drainage can lead to bulb rot, causing plants to decline or fail to emerge entirely. To prevent this, always amend heavy soils with grit or compost to ensure sharp drainage before planting your Star of Bethlehem bulbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Star of Bethlehem suitable for?
Ornithogalum magnum is ideally suited for USDA Hardiness Zones 5 through 8. Ensure your location falls within this range for reliable perennial growth.
How large does Star of Bethlehem grow?
This species typically reaches a height between 1 and 2 feet and spreads to a similar mature width of 1 to 2 feet.
When does Star of Bethlehem bloom?
This plant usually flowers robustly from May into June, showcasing its signature white, star-like blooms atop tall scapes.
What sun exposure does Ornithogalum magnum need?
Ornithogalum magnum prefers full sun for the best performance but adapts well to locations offering partial shade throughout the day.
Conclusion
The reliability and dramatic floral structure offered by Ornithogalum magnum make it an excellent choice for adding dependable excitement to the transition between spring and summer gardens. This Star of Bethlehem offers significant visual impact with relatively moderate demands on the gardener. Before planting, confirm your soil conditions favor good drainage, and plan your autumn planting window to maximize next season’s stunning white display.
Companion Planting
Choosing companions for Ornithogalum magnum should focus on plants that either coexist well with receding foliage or provide color contrast during the bloom time. Since the leaves of the Star of Bethlehem may start to disappear before mid-summer, pairing it with medium-height perennials that emerge later helps mask the thinning foliage gracefully. Consider pairing it with Geraniums, early Salvia varieties, or low-growing Nepeta, which will fill in the space left behind by the bulb foliage.
When planting in naturalized areas or meadows, mix the bulbs with native grasses or other late-spring blooming perennials like Alliums or early Irises. This mixing creates a layered, textured look where the bright white spikes of Ornithogalum magnum stand out brilliantly against greener or deeper-colored neighbors. Always ensure the chosen companions share the “medium water” and “full sun to part shade” requirements.
Propagation Tips
Propagation of this bulbous perennial is generally accomplished through the separation of offsets, a straightforward process well-suited to the “medium maintenance” category. Wait until the foliage of the Star of Bethlehem has completely yellowed and died back, typically in late summer or early fall. Gently lift the main bulb clump using a garden fork, taking care not to damage the cluster of bulblets attached to the mother bulb.
Carefully detach the smaller bulblets from the main Ornithogalum magnum bulb. These offsets can be immediately replanted in a slightly protected area or nursery bed to grow on, or they can be planted directly into their permanent locations, provided they are planted at the appropriate depth for their size. While self-sown seedlings may appear, propagation by division ensures new plants reach flowering maturity much quicker.
