Ornithogalum balansae (Pyrenees Star of Bethlehem)

Ornithogalum balansae (Pyrenees Star of Bethlehem) is a charming bulbous perennial with 2, almost prostrate, inversely lance-shaped, mid-green basal leaves, 4 in. long (10 cm). In spring, it boasts an upright flower stalk bearing a broad cluster of 2-5 star-shaped, glistening white flowers adorned with bright-green on the reverse side of the petals. With historical roots dating back to the 1880s, this miniature heirloom will naturalize by both bulb offsets and, occasionally, self-sowing seed where happy. Lovely when planted in groups, in patio containers, rock gardens or underplanting shrubs and roses.

• Grow up to 2-6 in. tall (5-15 cm) and 4-6 in. wide (10-15 cm). Will happily naturalize.
• Thrives in full sun in moderately fertile, well-drained soils. Keep soils evenly moist during the growing season.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Deer and critter resistant.
• To be planted in fall.
• Harmful if eaten, wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses, toxic to humans.
• Propagate by sowing seed in containers in a cold frame in autumn or spring. Remove offsets when dormant.
• Native to the temperate climates of Europe, northern Africa and Asia Minor.