Ornithogalum balansae (Pyrenees Star of Bethlehem)

Ornithogalum balansae (Pyrenees Star of Bethlehem) is a charming bulbous perennial with 2, almost prostrate, inversely lance-shaped, mid-green basal leaves, 4 in. long (10 cm). In spring, it boasts an upright flower stalk bearing a broad cluster of 2-5 star-shaped, glistening white flowers adorned with bright-green on the reverse side of the petals. With historical roots dating back to the 1880s, this miniature heirloom will naturalize by both bulb offsets and, occasionally, self-sowing seed where happy.

Ornithogalum balansae (Pyrenees Star of Bethlehem) is a charming bulbous perennial with 2, almost prostrate, inversely lance-shaped, mid-green basal leaves, 4 in. long (10 cm). In spring, it boasts an upright flower stalk bearing a broad cluster of 2-5 star-shaped, glistening white flowers adorned with bright-green on the reverse side of the petals. With historical roots dating back to the 1880s, this miniature heirloom will naturalize by both bulb offsets and, occasionally, self-sowing seed where happy. Lovely when planted in groups, in patio containers, rock gardens or underplanting shrubs and roses.

  • Grow up to 2-6 in. tall (5-15 cm) and 4-6 in. wide (10-15 cm). Will happily naturalize.
  • Thrives in full sun in moderately fertile, well-drained soils. Keep soils evenly moist during the growing season.
  • No serious pest or disease issues. Deer and critter resistant.
  • To be planted in fall.
  • Harmful if eaten, wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.
  • Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses, toxic to humans.
  • Propagate by sowing seed in containers in a cold frame in autumn or spring. Remove offsets when dormant.
  • Native to the temperate climates of Europe, northern Africa and Asia Minor.

Requirements

Hardiness 5
– 8

Plant Type Bulbs, Perennials
Plant Family Ornithogalum – Star of Bethlehem
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Mid)
Height 2"
– 6"
(5cm
– 15cm)
Spread 4"
– 6"
(10cm
– 15cm)
Spacing 4″
– 6″
(10cm
– 15cm)
Depth 4"
(10cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy
Tolerance Deer, Rabbit
Garden Uses Patio and Containers, Underplanting Roses and Shrubs
Garden Styles Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage