Ornithogalum
- Botanical Name
- Star of Bethlehem: Ornithogalum umbellatum. Black Pearl Lily: O. arabicum.
- Family
- Liliaceae/Asparagaceae
- Plant Type
- Bulb
- Size (HxW)
- Star of Bethlehem: 10-30cm x 10cm. Pearl: 30-70cm x 10-20cm.
- Depth & Spacing
- Plant 5-8cm under soil surface, pointed end up, space 10-20cm apart.
- Soil
- Moderately fertile to humus rich, well drained soil, not too fussy.
- Aspect
- Full Sun, but will tolerate semi-shade in warmer climates.
- Climate
- Cool to Mediterranean
- Frost
- Hardy
- Water
- Water to establish, then only if rainfall is low.
- Fertiliser
- Apply a well balanced fertiliser in autumn or spring, as the bulbs are coming or going.
- Flowering Time
- Late spring to summer
- After Flower Care
- Remove spent flowers to promote bulb growth. These bulbs may be left undisturbed for years. If overcrowding occurs, lift and divide whilst dormant - summer/autumn.
- Notes
- They look their best grouped in clumps. The flowers last well in a vase, 1-3 weeks. You can remove the foliage once it has yellowed.
