How to grow star of Bethlehem flowers (ornithogalum)

Star of Bethlehem (ornithogalum) is a genus of bulbous flowering plants, native to parts of Africa, Europe and Eurasia. Although there are around 180 species of ornithogalum, only a handful are currently available commercially. These bulbous perennials are characterised by star-shaped flowers, usually white and often with green markings – all held on a straight, green stem with lance-shaped leaves. The common name, star of Bethlehem, is derived from its resemblance to the star that guided the biblical magi to the birthplace of Jesus. They make an excellent cut flower.

Star of Bethlehem flower is a perennial plant, meaning it regrows year after year, although some species are much less hardy than others and should be brought indoors for winter. Bear in mind that ornithogalum contains toxic compounds and should be handled with care. Avoid ingesting any part of the plant, as it can cause discomfort or illness if consumed.

While ornithogalum is not considered invasive in the UK, it's essential to monitor its growth to prevent overcrowding and maintain the balance of your garden.

How to grow ornithogalum

Grow ornithogalum in well-drained, loamy to sandy soil in a sunny or lightly shaded position. Some varieties are not hardy so need to be taken indoors for winter; these may be best grown in pots.

Where to grow star of Bethlehem

Grow ornithogalum in rockeries or naturalised in grassy areas. It also does well in containers.

How to plant ornithogalum

When planting in the ground, dig a hole in fertile, well-drained soil that's twice as deep as the bulb's height and place it in the hole with the pointed end facing upwards. Fill the hole with soil, firm it gently and water the area thoroughly. If planting in containers, choose free-draining, peat-free compost and follow the same planting instructions.

Flowering times for species within the Ornithogalum genus vary, and this influences planting times. See the species list below for details.

How to care for ornithogalum

Once established, ornithogalum requires minimal care. Water the plants regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the plants helps to conserve moisture and suppress weed growth.

Where bulbs are naturalised in grass, avoid mowing the area until their foliage has died back.

Ornithogalum does not require pruning. After the flowers fade you can remove the spent flower stalks and trim any yellowing leaves. However, it's important to allow the rest of the leaves to wither naturally to ensure the bulb stores enough energy for future growth, usually waiting until summer or early autumn to cut them back.

Propagating star of Bethlehem

Ornithogalum can be propagated by dividing the bulbs. Lift the bulbs from the ground during the dormant period in the autumn and separate the offsets or bulblets from the main bulb. Replant the offsets at the same depth as the parent bulb, ensuring they have enough space to grow.

Pests and diseases

Ornithogalum is occasionally susceptible to certain pests and diseases:

Aphids feed on the sap of plants and can cause damage to the foliage if present in large numbers. Usually natural predators such as birds and ladybirds will keep aphid numbers under control but if necessary you can rub them off by hand.

Slugs and snails can eat through the leaves and flowers of ornithogalum. Use physical barriers like copper tape or eggshells around the plants to deter them. You can also hand-pick slugs and snails off and dispose of them.

Bulb rot can be caused by excessively wet soil or poor drainage, particularly in pots. Ensure the soil is well drained and avoid overwatering.

Ornithogalum varieties to grow

Giant chincherinchee, Ornithogalum saundersiae – this impressive variety bears large, fragrant white flowers. Plant in spring after risk of frost has passed, or earlier under glass, for flowering in July to August. Lift in autumn to overwinter indoors. Height x Spread: 90cm x 50cm.

• Buy Ornithogalum saundersiae from Petrichor Bulb Specialists

Drooping star of Bethlehem, Ornithogalum nutans – this species features nodding white flowers and is fully hardy. Plant in autumn for flowers in May and June. You can leave the bulbs in the ground over winter. H x S: 25cm x 15cm.

• Buy Ornithogalum nutans from J Parker's

Chincherinchee, Ornithogalum thyrsoides – tall spikes covered in small white flowers. Plant in spring once most risk of frost has passed, for flowers in May and June. Lift the bulbs after foliage has died back naturally to overwinter indoors. H x S: 60cm x 10cm.

• Buy Ornithogalum thyrsoides from Crocus

Yellow chincherinchee, Ornithogalum dubium – orange-yellow flowers. Tender below 5ºC, so best grown as a house plant, ideally in a conservatory. H x S: 30cm x 30cm.

• Buy Ornithogalum dubium from J Parker's

Common star of Bethlehem, Ornithogalum umbellatum – bears clusters of white, star-shaped flowers. Plant in autumn for flowers in March to May. This species is very hardy, so there's no need to lift bulbs in autumn. H x S: 25cm x 15cm.

• Buy Ornithogalum umbellatum from Avon Bulbs

Dwarf star of Bethlehem, Ornithogalum oligophyllum – a compact variety, hardy through most of the UK. Plant in autumn for flowers in April to May. There's no need to lift bulbs in autumn, though you may prefer to grow this small plant in a pot. H x S: 20cm x 10cm.

• Buy Ornithogalum oligophyllum from Farmer Gracy