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 |
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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 |