Star of Bethlehem Ornithogalum dubium
ABOUT
Ornithogalum dubium, commonly known as star of Bethlehem or sun star, is a bulbous plant with a striking appearance. It showcases a rosette of glossy, lance-shaped leaves that are a vibrant green color, creating an attractive base for its flowers. The foliage is fleshy and provides a pleasing contrast to the bright blooms. The plant is renowned for its vibrant flowers which consist of several star-shaped blossoms displayed on a central flower spike. These flowers are usually a vivid orange or yellow hue, lending the nickname sun star to the plant. Each bloom is composed of six pointed petals, radiating outward from the center where the reproductive parts of the flower, such as the stamen and pistil, are modestly tucked away. The flowers cluster at the top of a sturdy, upright stem that emerges from the center of the leaf base. The overall impression of the star of Bethlehem is one of a cheerful and bright plant, with its sunny-hued blossoms creating a striking contrast against the rich green foliage. Its star-like flowers and lush leaves make it a captivating addition to many garden settings or as a cherished indoor plant.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae
Synonyms
Sun Star, Orange Star, Star of Bethlehem, Yellow Chincherinchee
Common names
Ornithogalum aureum, Ornithogalum glaucum, Ornithogalum nutans var. aureum, Ornithogalum nutans var. dubium.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as star of Bethlehem is considered to be toxic to humans. Ingesting any part of the plant can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, it can cause dizziness, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias due to the presence of cardiac glycosides. The ingestion of large quantities could potentially lead to life-threatening situations, such as heart complications, although such extreme cases are rare.
To pets
Star of Bethlehem is toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. If a pet ingests this plant, they may exhibit signs of poisoning such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, it can cause more serious symptoms like tremors, hypotension, and cardiac arrhythmias due to the cardiac glycosides found in the plant. The consumption of large amounts could be dangerous and may require urgent veterinary attention.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Orange
Height
1 foot [30 cm]
Spread
1 foot [30 cm]
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant color and visual interest to gardens and indoor spaces with its bright orange flowers.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, shows a good level of drought resistance, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Long Blooming Period: Flowers last for several weeks, offering a prolonged display of beauty compared to some other plants.
- Container Gardening: Suitable for pots and containers, providing flexibility in garden design and space utilization.
- Cut Flower Use: Stems with blooms make for striking arrangements in cut flower displays.
- Bulb Propagation: Easy to propagate through division of bulbs, allowing gardeners to expand their collection without additional cost.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ornithogalum dubium, commonly known as Sun Star, can serve as a natural indicator for the seasonal transition to spring as it typically blooms during this period.
- In photography and art, Sun Star's vibrant orange flowers provide a stunning subject for close-up photographs or botanical illustrations.
- Crafting enthusiasts use the dried stems and flowers of Sun Star in creating permanent floral arrangements and decorative wreaths.
- Wedding planners sometimes incorporate Sun Star's bright blossoms in bridal bouquets and table centerpieces for a splash of color.
- Garden designers use the Sun Star as a 'filler' plant to provide contrasts in texture and color in rock gardens and flower beds.
- The Sun Star flower is sometimes used in educational settings to teach botany and plant biology due to its interesting growth patterns and structure.
- Edible landscaping enthusiasts may include Sun Star in their garden designs as an ornamental, non-edible accent amongst vegetable patches.
- The plant's ability to thrive in containers makes it popular among urban gardeners looking to add a burst of color to balconies and small spaces.
- Feng Shui practitioners might use Sun Star plants in their arrangements to harness the energy of growth and vibrancy that the flowers are believed to emit.
- During festivals or seasonal events, Sun Star can be an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic decorations when looking to incorporate natural elements into the venue design.
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- Innocence: Representing the pure and untainted, a notion often associated with white or delicate flowers, the Ornithogalum dubium, commonly known as the Star of Bethlehem, symbolizes a sense of innocence and new beginnings.
- Hope: The Star of Bethlehem is a herald of hope due to its association with the biblical story in which a star guided the Wise Men to the birth of Jesus. Its appearance in nature is thus seen as a sign of things looking up or improving.
- Purity: The flower's bright, white blooms are frequently linked with the concept of purity, and it is sometimes used in religious and ceremonial contexts to convey this message.
- Forgiveness: In some traditions, the Star of Bethlehem is considered a symbol of forgiveness, offering a reminder of compassion and reconciliation.
WaterThe common name for Ornithogalum dubium is Star of Bethlehem. It should be watered sparingly when the soil surface feels dry to the touch, approximately every 7 to 10 days, depending on the humidity and temperature of the environment. Generally, during active growth in spring and summer, water with about 8-12 ounces every week, allowing the water to drain well. In the dormant period after flowering, reduce watering to once a month with around 6-8 ounces to prevent the bulb from rotting. It is important not to overwater as this can lead to bulb and root rot.
LightThe Star of Bethlehem thrives best in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but prolonged exposure to hot, direct sun can scorch the leaves. A spot near a south, east, or west-facing window with some light shading is ideal. Ensuring the plant receives adequate light will support its vibrant flowering and overall health.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature range for Star of Bethlehem is between 50°F and 75°F. The plant can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 35°F but should not be exposed to frost or freezing conditions. The maximum temperature should not exceed 80°F for extended periods. Keeping the plant in its preferred temperature range will promote healthy growth and blooming.
PruningPruning the Star of Bethlehem is primarily done to remove spent flower stalks and yellow or dead foliage, which encourages healthy growth and appearance. Pruning is typically done after the plant has finished flowering, usually by cutting the flower stem close to the base. General maintenance to remove old leaves can be performed as needed throughout the year.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Star of Bethlehem needs well-draining soil with a mixture of potting soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingStar of Bethlehem should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when the bulbs become crowded in their current pot.
Humidity & MistingStar of Bethlehem thrives in average indoor humidity levels, between 40% and 60%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Star of Bethlehem in bright light, avoiding direct sun.
Outdoor
Grow in partial shade; shelter from harsh sun.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA
Life cycleOrnithogalum dubium, commonly known as star-of-Bethlehem or sun star, begins its life cycle when seeds are dispersed and find suitable soil, where they germinate and establish a small bulb. The bulb then sends up strap-like leaves and a flowering stalk during the growing season, usually in late winter to spring. After flowering, the blooms give way to seed capsules that, when mature, open to release seeds for dispersal. The plant enters a dormancy period in the summer when the foliage dies back, allowing the bulb to survive underground in a resting state. During the dormant period, the bulb conserves energy until environmental conditions become favorable again. With the arrival of the next growing season, the cycle repeats as new growth emerges from the bulb.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum dubium) is through division of its bulbs. This tends to be done at the end of the plant's dormant period, which usually falls in late summer to early autumn. Gardeners carefully dig up the clumps of bulbs and gently separate them by hand, making sure each division has at least one growth point. Once divided, the bulbs should be replanted at a depth of about 3 to 4 inches (7.6 to 10.2 centimeters) in well-draining soil. It is important to space the bulbs about 4 to 6 inches (10.2 to 15.2 centimeters) apart to ensure proper growth. In suitable conditions, these bulbs will establish themselves quickly and start to produce foliage, followed by blooms in the following season.
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