Ornithogalum umbellatum Star of Bethlehem (Liliaceae)

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Ornithogalum umbellatum
Star of Bethlehem
(1 Page of 5)

The Ornithogalum umbellatum plant species is found in Britain - E. England. It is a member of the Liliaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Star of Bethlehem.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Ornithogalum umbellatum
Common Name:  Star of Bethlehem
Family:  Liliaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  Skin contact with the bulb can cause dermatitis in sensitive people[65]. The bulb contains alkaloids and is poisonous[2, 62]. Another report says that the bulb is poisonous to grazing animals[183].

Mature Height:  0.3   Mature Width:  0.15

Habitat:  Grassy places[5, 17].

Cultivation Notes: An easily grown plant, succeeding in an ordinary garden soil[1, 42]. Tolerates partial shade[200]. Hardy to about -20°c[200]. The dormant bulbs are very hardy and will withstand soil temperatures down to at least -10°c[214]. A very ornamental plant[1], but it can be invasive where conditions suit it[200]. It can be naturalized in short turf or thin grass below shrubs[200], though this should not be mown from the time the bulbs start to grow until they have set seed and the leaves are dying down.

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

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