Star of Bethlehem Ornithogalum lanceolatum
ABOUT
Ornithogalum lanceolatum, commonly known as lance-leaved star-of-Bethlehem, has a striking appearance that is characterized by its distinct foliage and floral characteristics. The plant bears slender leaves that are lance-shaped - hence its common name - with a smooth texture and a lush green color. These leaves often grow in a rosette-like pattern at the base, creating a neat and organized look. The flowers of lance-leaved star-of-Bethlehem are quite notable for their star-shaped form. Each flower typically has six white petals that contrast sharply with a central region often tinged with green or yellow shades. These flowers are cupped by green sepals and come together in loose clusters atop sturdy, upright stems that rise gracefully from the foliage below. Prominent and eye-catching, the floral display of lance-leaved star-of-Bethlehem is a highlight in the landscape when in bloom. The combination of the elegant leaves and the radiant white flowers gives this plant a delicate yet vibrant appearance that is both ornamental and refined. Despite its beauty, it is important to note that all parts of this plant are considered toxic if ingested.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae
Synonyms
Lance-Leaved Star of Bethlehem, Hard-Leaved Star-of-Bethlehem
Common names
Ornithogalum montanum, Ornithogalum pyramidale, Loncomelos lanceolatum.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Star-of-Bethlehem is considered to be toxic to humans. All parts of the plant contain toxic alkaloids, with a higher concentration typically found in the bulb. If ingested, these alkaloids can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, tremors, convulsions, and can be potentially life-threatening due to its cardiotoxic effects. Professional medical advice should be sought immediately if ingestion is suspected.
To pets
The Star-of-Bethlehem is toxic to pets such as cats and dogs. The toxicity is due to the presence of cardiac glycosides and other alkaloids throughout the plant, including the bulb. If a pet ingests any part of the Star-of-Bethlehem, signs of poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, lethargy, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, it can lead to tremors, seizures, and cardiac abnormalities. Immediate veterinary attention is necessary if a pet has ingested this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Ornithogalum lanceolatum, commonly known as Lance-leaved Star-of-Bethlehem, adds visual interest to gardens with its distinctive white flowers and lance-shaped foliage.
- Low Maintenance: This plant requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for busy gardeners or those new to horticulture.
- Drought Tolerance: Lance-leaved Star-of-Bethlehem is drought-tolerant, which is beneficial for water conservation and arid climate gardening.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems and biodiversity.
- Bulb Propagation: The bulbous nature of the plant allows for easy propagation through bulb division, facilitating garden expansion and sharing with others.
- Seasonal Interest: Lance-leaved Star-of-Bethlehem typically blooms in spring, providing seasonal interest after the dull winter months.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Floral Arrangements: Ornithogalum lanceolatum, commonly known as lance-leaved star-of-Bethlehem, can be used in cut flower arrangements for its aesthetic appeal and long-lasting blooms.
- Photography: Its distinct flower structure makes it an interesting subject for botanical photography and contributes to plant identification guides.
- Education: The plant serves as a specimen for botany education, illustrating plant morphology and the life cycle of perennial bulbs.
- Garden Design: The lance-leaved star-of-Bethlehem can be used in rock gardens or border plantings for its attractive foliage and flowers.
- Crafts: Dried flowers of the plant can be used in creating natural crafts or pressed flower art.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not common, the flowers may serve as an edible garnish for special dishes, provided they are free of pesticides.
- Land Reclamation: It can be planted in efforts for ecological restoration or land reclamation projects due to its hardiness.
- Eco-friendly Packing: Dried stems and leaves can be used as a biodegradable packing material for delicate items.
- Marker of Seasons: In regions where it's naturalized, its blooming can be a phenological indicator marking the change of seasons.
- Companion Planting: It might be used in companion planting to attract pollinators, supporting the growth of nearby fruit and vegetable crops.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Star of Bethlehem is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Star of Bethlehem is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Purity: Ornithogalum lanceolatum, commonly known as "Star of Bethlehem," often symbolizes purity due to its bright, white blossoms resembling stars.
- Hope: The star shape of its flowers is frequently associated with guidance and hope, akin to the biblical story where a star led the three wise men to Bethlehem.
- Innocence: Due to its pure and unblemished appearance, the Star of Bethlehem is often used to represent innocence in various cultural contexts.
- Forgiveness: In Christian symbolism, the plant is believed to represent forgiveness, as it's associated with the birth of Jesus and the salvation he brought.
WaterThe Chess Flower (Ornithogalum lanceolatum) prefers to be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically means watering approximately once a week. Use lukewarm water and gently pour it around the base of the plant until the water begins to drain from the bottom of the pot. The amount of water required will vary based on the size of the pot, but a general rule of thumb is to provide half a gallon of water for a standard 8 to 10-inch pot every watering session. Decrease watering frequency in the dormant season, usually in fall and winter, to prevent root rot. Always ensure that the pot has adequate drainage to avoid standing water, which can be detrimental to the plant's health.
LightThe Chess Flower thrives best in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight. A spot near a south or west-facing window with a sheer curtain to diffuse direct sunlight is ideal. Avoid placing the plant in full shade or extremely low light conditions, as this can lead to weak growth and fewer flowers.
TemperatureThe Chess Flower prefers a temperature range of 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit during its growing season. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but sustained exposure to temperatures below this can harm the plant. Ideally, keep the plant in a consistent temperature environment and protect it from drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations to maintain its health.
PruningThe Chess Flower requires minimal pruning, mainly to remove spent flower stalks and dead or yellowing leaves to encourage healthy growth and blooming. Pruning is best done after flowering is complete, typically in the summer. Use clean, sharp shears to make clean cuts and avoid tearing the plant's tissue. You may also trim back any overgrown foliage at this time to maintain the plant's shape.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLance-Leaved Star-of-Bethlehem prefers well-drained soil with a mix of loam, sand, and organic material like compost. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ideally ranging from 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingLance-Leaved Star-of-Bethlehem should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound. Spring is the best time for repotting to allow the plant to establish in the growing season.
Humidity & MistingLance-Leaved Star-of-Bethlehem thrives in moderate humidity levels; however, it is quite adaptable and does not require any special humidity considerations beyond the typical household environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and water moderately.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade; ensure soil is well-drained.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA
Life cycleOrnithogalum lanceolatum, commonly known as Lance-Leaved Star of Bethlehem, begins its life as a seed which, when sown in a well-drained soil with adequate warmth, germinates to produce a small bulb. As spring arrives, the bulb sends up narrow, lance-shaped leaves and a flowering stem that bears white, star-shaped flowers, generally blooming from late spring to early summer. After flowering, the plant goes into a period of dormancy during the summer months where the above-ground foliage dies back. During dormancy, the bulb remains underground, storing energy for the next growth cycle. In the following spring, new growth emerges from the bulb, repeating the life cycle. Over time, the bulbs can multiply, leading to a larger clump of plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum lanceolatum) is through its bulb offsets. The optimal time to propagate the plants by dividing bulbs is late summer to early fall, after the plants have finished flowering and the foliage has died back. To propagate, carefully dig up the bulbs, being sure to minimize damage. You'll notice smaller bulbs, or offsets, attached to the base of the mother bulb. Gently separate these offsets and replant them at the same depth as the original bulbs, usually about 3 to 4 inches deep (approximately 7.5 to 10 centimeters), in well-draining soil. Water the newly planted bulbs lightly to help establish them. In the following spring, these offsets should begin to grow and eventually flower, perpetuating the cycle of growth.
