Star of Bethlehem
Ornithogalum umbellatum · Asparagaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant star of bethlehem: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Flowering
- April to May
- Adult size
- 20 to 30 cm in height
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Hardiness
- Down to -15 °C
- Exposure
- Sun to partial shade
- Soil type
- Well-draining, light
- Origin
- Mediterranean Basin and North Africa
- Growth
- Fast
Care
Watering
Water moderately during spring growth and flowering. Allow the soil to dry between waterings. Once the leaves fade in late summer, reduce watering considerably as the bulb enters dormancy.
Exposure
Plant in a sunny or partially shaded location. The eleven o'clock lady appreciates light to bloom abundantly, but also tolerates light shade.
Soil
Choose well-draining, light and not-too-rich soil. A sandy mixture or garden soil amended with sand works perfectly. Avoid waterlogging which could rot the bulb.
Fertilizer
Balanced or slightly phosphorus-rich fertilizer in early spring is sufficient. Application should be moderate: the bulb stores its reserves, and excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning and cleanup
Let the foliage fade naturally after flowering so the bulb rebuilds its reserves. Cut off the dried foliage once completely dry, usually in July.
Diseases and pests
The eleven o'clock lady is generally hardy. In overly wet soil, the bulb may rot. Watch for slugs and snails in spring. Good air circulation and proper drainage prevent most problems.
Did you know?
Its common name 'eleven o'clock lady' comes from the habit of flowers opening late in the morning and closing early in the afternoon, as if the plant had an appointment at eleven o'clock. Old gardeners used it as a natural botanical clock. This characteristic also earned it the name 'Christmas tulip' in some regions, though it does not flower in winter at all.
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.