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Nodding star of Bethlehem
Ornithogalum nutans · Asparagaceae
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⚠️ Bulbes toxiques par ingestion pour chiens, chats et enfants. Cause irritation gastrique et troubles digestifs.
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant nodding star of bethlehem: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Form
- Bulb
- Adult height
- 40 cm
- Blooming
- April to May
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Hardiness
- Hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- Mediterranean Basin and Asia Minor
✓ Taxonomy verifiedSource: AI estimate · hardiness: reliability medium.
Expert tips
The key tip
Star of Bethlehem with drooping flowers produces abundant bulbils that quickly colonize the area: only plant if you're willing to control them through annual removal or by growing in an isolated pot. After flowering (May), cut off the flower stems to stop seed spread.
The common mistake
Planting it in a mixed bed without realizing that the bulbils will invade neighboring plants within 2-3 years.
The pro's trick
Grow it in a pot with an isolated saucer: it flowers beautifully without risk of invasion and naturally divides itself.
Care
Exposure
Plant the nodding star of Bethlehem in partial shade or full sun depending on your climate. It appreciates 4 to 6 hours of direct light per day. In very hot regions, afternoon partial shade preserves the coolness of the bulb.
Watering
Water regularly during spring growth and flowering. Let the soil dry slightly at the surface between waterings. After flowering, gradually reduce water until you stop completely in summer.
Soil
Choose well-draining soil rich in organic matter, slightly acidic to neutral. Incorporate compost or potting soil at planting to promote decomposition. Avoid waterlogging at all costs, which causes bulb rot.
Fertilization
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring when the first leaves appear. You can add flowering bulb fertilizer at planting time. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which promotes foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning and cleanup
Let the faded flowers dry naturally on the plant. Only cut the leaves when they become completely yellow, so the bulb can rebuild its reserves. Clean up dry debris after summer dormancy.
Diseases and pests
Star of Bethlehem is generally robust. Watch for rot due to excessive moisture, especially in winter. If water stagnation persists, lift the bulbs and replant them in more aerated substrate.
Did you know?
The name "Ornithogalum" comes from the Greek orneis (bird) and gala (milk), referring to the pure white of its flowers. This plant was long cultivated in Europe for its delicate elegance, appearing in medieval monastic gardens where it symbolized innocence.
Where to buy it
Plant the bulbs in autumn for spring flowering. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: from September to November.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.