How to Grow Star of Bethlehem
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Star of Bethlehem
Ornithogalum thyrsoides
flowerStar of Bethlehem is a bulbous perennial known for its elegant spikes of small, star-shaped white flowers with green or yellow centers. Native to South Africa, it produces long-lasting blooms that are popular as cut flowers and garden ornamentals. The plant is valued for its delicate appearance and extended flowering period.
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Example Star of Bethlehem timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Star of Bethlehem
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Star of Bethlehem blooms
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-11; can be grown in containers in cooler zones
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Bulb dormancy/Chilling
8-12 weeksBulbs require a cold period of 8-12 weeks to break dormancy. Store in cool conditions (35-45°F).
Keep bulbs dry and cool. Plant after chilling period ends. This cold requirement is essential for proper flowering.
Sprouting
2-3 weeksGreen shoots and narrow linear leaves emerge from the soil. Root development begins underground.
Ensure soil is warm (60-65°F) and consistently moist. Provide full sunlight as soon as shoots appear.
Vegetative growth
3-4 weeksLong, strap-like leaves develop and flower buds form at the center. Plant builds energy reserves.
Maintain consistent moisture. Apply balanced fertilizer monthly. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves.
Flowering
4-6 weeksDense pyramidal spikes of small white star-shaped flowers bloom progressively from bottom to top. Flowers have greenish or yellowish centers.
Continue regular watering. Deadhead spent lower flowers to encourage upper blooms. Cut stems for flowers last 2-3 weeks in a vase.
Senescence and dormancy
4-8 weeksFoliage yellows and withers as plant enters dormancy. Energy is stored back into the bulb.
Gradually reduce watering. Stop fertilizing. Allow foliage to die back naturally. Store bulbs in cool, dry location until next planting season.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap if infestation is severe. Increase humidity around plants.
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Plant bulbs deeply, avoid damaging bulbs during handling. Keep area free of plant debris. Remove affected bulbs.
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Use blue sticky traps, neem oil, or spinosad-based insecticides. Remove heavily infested flowers.
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Apply diatomaceous earth around base. Store bulbs in cool conditions. Discard soft or damaged bulbs.
Uses
Not for consumption
CulinaryWhile not edible, the flowers are used in floral arrangements and are completely non-toxic to handle. [source]
Cut flowers and arrangements
HouseholdStar of Bethlehem is an exceptional cut flower, prized by florists for its long vase life and progressive blooming habit. The spikes add vertical interest to arrangements and bouquets. [source]
Dried arrangements
CraftThe flower spikes dry well and can be used in dried floral arrangements, preserving their delicate appearance for months. [source]
Pollinator attraction
WildlifeThe star-shaped flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting pollinator populations in the garden. [source]
Garden ornamental and borders
HouseholdThe elegant spikes provide vertical texture and clean aesthetic to garden borders, rock gardens, and container displays, extending bloom time throughout spring and early summer. [source]
Harvest Tips
Cut flower spikes in the morning when the lowest flowers are open but upper buds remain tight. Use a sharp knife to cut stems at the base. Remove the lower inch of stem and any foliage that would sit below the waterline. Change water every 2-3 days. Flowers typically last 2-3 weeks in a vase and will continue opening progressively from bottom to top.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'Star of Bethlehem' refers to the star-shaped white flowers, and the plant is sometimes associated with Christmas due to its resemblance to the Star of Bethlehem imagery in nativity scenes.
- 🌱 Ornithogalum thyrsoides is native to the Western Cape of South Africa and is one of the most commercially important Ornithogalum species for the cut flower industry worldwide.
- 🌱 In the language of flowers, white Ornithogalum symbolizes purity and elegance, making them a popular choice for bridal and formal arrangements.
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