Ornithogalum umbellatum (Star of Bethlehem)

Ornithogalum umbellatum (Star of Bethlehem) is a bulbous perennial bearing pretty racemes of star-shaped white flowers, green on the outside, in late spring to early summer. The flowers open only if enough sunlight is present. During dull weather, they close to display the green exteriors of their petals. Each stem bears up to 16-20 starry white flowers arranged in loose umbels. The foliage of linear leaves, adorned with a white mid-vein, fades as the flowers emerge. Star of Bethlehem is a vigorous naturalizer, often spreading rapidly by offsets. Best planted in areas where this plant will not disturb other plants.

• Grows up to 6-12 in. tall (15-30 cm). Naturalizes well where happy.
• Thrives in moderately fertile, moist, and well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Some tolerance for dry soils once established.
• Great in grass, meadows, woodlands, or underplanting roses and shrubs.
• Pest and disease free. Deer and rabbit resistant
• All parts may cause severe discomfort if ingested, and the sap may irritate the skin. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses, toxic to humans.
• Native to northern Africa, western Asia, and Europe. Once established, Ornithogalum umbellatum spreads across the forest floor and displaces many U.S. species of native spring ephemeral plants.
• Find where this species is invasive in the United States.
• Discover beautiful U.S. native plant alternatives.