star-of-Bethlehem
ExplorePlants
star-of-Bethlehem
Ornithogalum
The star-of-Bethlehem is a pretty white flower that blooms in spring. Its star-shaped petals make it look like a little star shining in the grass!
Habitat: Grasslands
Appearance
The star-of-Bethlehem has delicate, star-shaped white flowers, each with six pointed petals often marked with a green stripe on the underside. Its narrow, grass-like leaves grow from a bulb, forming a small clump that is distinctly different from larger, showier garden flowers.
KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassLiliopsidaOrderAsparagalesFamilyAsparagaceaeGenusOrnithogalum
Category
PlantsRarity
Common
Danger
2/5 · Low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Despite its beauty, all parts of this plant are poisonous and should never be eaten!
Each tiny star-shaped flower has six shiny stamens, which are like little golden arms!
In some places, this plant can be an invasive species, spreading very fast!
It's also called 'nap-at-noon' because its flowers often close midday!
Special abilities
Ability
Rapid Spreader
Star-of-Bethlehem can multiply underground with tiny bulblets, helping it spread quickly and form dense carpets of flowers.
Ability
Flower Closer
Star-of-Bethlehem can close its star-shaped flowers at night or during bad weather, protecting its precious pollen.
Ability
Toxic Defense
Star-of-Bethlehem has toxic compounds in its leaves and bulbs, which help protect it from hungry herbivores.
Measurements & details
- Height
- 15-30 cm
- Spread
- 10-20 cm
- Flower Size
- 2-4 cm
- Bloom Season
- Spring
- Edible
- No
- Toxicity
- Moderate
- Lifecycle
- Perennial
- Pollination Method
- Insect
Ecological connections
pollinates
European honey bee
Apis mellifera
provides nectar and pollen for foraging bees
pollinates
Common eastern bumblebee
Bombus impatiens
an early spring food source for these busy pollinators
eaten by
Garden slug
Arion hortensis
young leaves can be a food source for some slugs
Traits
Flowering
Flowering plants are any plants that produce flowers as part of their reproductive cycle.
Ornamental
Ornamental plants are cultivated primarily for their aesthetic appeal, enhancing landscapes and gardens with their attractive foliage, flowers, or form.
Spring Blooming
Spring blooming plants produce their flowers during the spring season, often signifying the end of winter and the start of new growth.
Fragrant Flower
Fragrant flowers emit a pleasant aroma, often to attract pollinators or for defense.
Grassland
Grassland habitats are terrestrial biomes dominated by grasses and herbaceous plants, supporting a variety of grazing animals.
Pollinator Magnet
Describes plants that are particularly attractive and beneficial to a wide range of pollinating organisms.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
2/5 · Low
Do not eat any part of this flower, as it can make you feel sick.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is star-of-Bethlehem?
15-30 cm
How wide does star-of-Bethlehem spread?
10-20 cm
How big are the flowers on star-of-Bethlehem?
2-4 cm
When does star-of-Bethlehem bloom?
Spring
Is star-of-Bethlehem edible?
No
Is star-of-Bethlehem toxic?
Moderate
What is star-of-Bethlehem's lifecycle?
Perennial
How is star-of-Bethlehem pollinated?
Insect
Snap Map
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