Star of Bethlehem is a flowering, perennial bulb that grows in clumps and shoots up flower stems bearing small, star-shaped blooms. The flowers open in the late morning and close once the sun goes down or during cloudy weather. Star of Bethlehem bulbs grow best in temperate conditions, preferring full-to-partial sunlight and well-draining soil. In fact, these bulbs grow so readily that they can be invasive.
The vibrant purple star of Bethlehem flower brings a touch of magic to the garden in spring. This eye-catching bulb blooms in a range of regal hues from rich purple to soft mauve. Its cheery flowers and hardy nature make it a joy to grow.
In this complete guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this mesmerizing flower, from its origins to optimal care. Read on to learn how to grow and enjoy the stunning purple star of Bethlehem in your own yard.
Overview of the Purple Star of Bethlehem
The purple star of Bethlehem belongs to the genus Ornithogalum, which contains around 200 species of flowering bulbs It is a hybrid variety developed from the species Ornithogalum dubium, which bears orange flowers.
The purple star of Bethlehem boasts petite, six-petaled blooms in vibrant shades of purple, violet, and mauve The flowers emerge on slender stalks, up to 8 inches tall, above grassy green foliage Each bulb produces a spray of 10-20 delicate blooms.
This hardy flower thrives in USDA plant hardiness zones 4-9 It flowers primarily in spring but may rebloom sporadically in summer The purple color is a unique change from the more common white selection.
Origins and History
The star of Bethlehem flower traces its roots to Europe, western Asia, and the Mediterranean. It grows abundantly across southern Europe and was likely brought to America in the mid-1800s as an ornamental garden plant.
The wild species is considered invasive in many parts of the United States, but cultivated hybrids like the purple star of Bethlehem are sterile and do not spread aggressively.
According to legend, the flower sprang up where fragments of the biblical Star of Bethlehem fell from the sky. This apocryphal tale led to its whimsical nickname, “star of Bethlehem.”
Growing Conditions
To achieve the best growth and maximum flowers, provide the following conditions for purple star of Bethlehem:
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Average, well-draining garden soil
- Water: Moderate moisture during growth and bloom period
- Temperature: Average cool-season temperatures
- Fertilizer: Occasional light feeding in spring
- Hardiness Zones: 4-9
This plant can tolerate partial shade but produces the most abundant flowers in a spot with at least 6 hours of direct sun daily. Avoid overly rich soil, which can lead to floppy growth. Consistent moisture is appreciated while actively growing and blooming.
How to Plant Bulbs
For best results, plant the purple star of Bethlehem bulbs in the fall. This allows the bulbs to establish roots before sending up foliage and flower spikes in spring. Follow these tips:
- Select a site with well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
- Work compost or bulb fertilizer into the soil if needed to enrich it.
- Plant the bulbs 4-6 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart in early fall.
- Water the bulbs at planting time, then provide 1 inch of water weekly until the ground freezes.
Consider combining the purple blooms with white and orange star of Bethlehem bulbs for a delightful spring display. Plant in drifts or clusters of 10-20 bulbs for greater visual impact. The purple color is most prominent when massed together.
Caring for the Plants
With proper care, the purple star of Bethlehem flower will continue providing joy for many years. Follow these growing and maintenance tips:
- Water thoroughly after planting and provide supplemental water during drought.
- Apply an organic bulb fertilizer or compost annually in early spring.
- Remove spent flower stems after blooming finishes to limit self-seeding.
- Allow the foliage to die back completely before removing it.
- Lift and divide the bulbs every 3-4 years if they become overcrowded. Replant the largest bulbs immediately.
- Plant in containers for portability and ease of overwintering in cold climates.
Encouraging Maximum Blooms
The purple star of Bethlehem flower blooms heavily for 2-3 weeks in late spring. Here are some tips for encouraging the most abundant floral display:
- Plant in full sun to trigger prolific blooming.
- Provide consistent moisture while the plant is actively growing and flowering.
- Avoid overfertilizing, which can cause lush foliage at the expense of flowers.
- Plant drifts or clusters of at least 10-20 bulbs for better visual impact.
- Remove spent blooms promptly to conserve the plant’s energy.
- Allow the foliage to die back naturally; don’t cut it until it browns completely. Healthy foliage produces the energy needed for next year’s flowers.
Overwintering the Bulbs
The purple star of Bethlehem bulb is winter hardy in zones 4-9. It will likely survive outdoors year-round unless you’re in an area prone to deep freezes. To be safe, consider these overwintering options:
- In zones 4-6, lift bulbs after the foliage fades completely and store them in a cool, dry spot over winter. Replant them in fall.
- In zones 7-9, mulch the bulbs with 4-6 inches of shredded bark, leaves, or straw in late fall to insulate the soil. Pull the mulch away in spring as growth resumes.
- For convenient protection, plant bulbs in containers that can be moved into a protected area like an unheated garage over winter.
With proper overwintering care, the hardy purple star of Bethlehem bulb will emerge each spring to produce another dazzling floral display.
Troubleshooting Problems
The purple star of Bethlehem flower is relatively trouble-free when grown in appropriate conditions. Potential problems include:
- Lack of flowering – Increase sun exposure, amend soil with compost, provide ample moisture while blooming.
- Foliage yellowing or dying prematurely – Improve drainage, avoid overwatering.
- Failure to emerge in spring – Check for rodent damage to bulbs, replace damaged bulbs promptly.
- Bulbs rotting – Plant in well-draining soil, reduce watering when dormant.
Catch issues early and adjust care promptly to keep bulbs flowering healthfully each season.
Enjoying Purple Blooms in the Garden
With its eye-catching color, petite size, and hardy nature, the purple star of Bethlehem flower provides an easy and elegant way to welcome spring. Mass a drift of the vibrant blooms along walkways, at woodland edges, or in rock gardens for a stunning floral display. Pair them with other spring-blooming bulbs for waves of color.
If you love unique flower bulbs that herald the changing seasons, give the purple star of Bethlehem a try this spring. With a little bit of planting and care, you’ll enjoy their cheerful blooms for many years to come.
Propagating Star of Bethlehem
The bulbs will multiply prolifically over time, producing what are referred to as offsets or bulbils. Heres how to propagate the plant:
- In late summer as the foliage is dying back, use a shovel or trowel to dig up the bulbs.
- Carefully separate the offset bulbils clinging to the parent bulb.
- Immediately replant the bulbils and parent bulbs about 3-6 inches deep and 4 inches apart in moist, loamy soil. The smallest bulbils may require a full two years before they are mature enough to bloom.
Temperature and Humidity
Star of Bethlehem is quite hardy to the temperature extremes of its growing zones (4 to 9). Humidity also typically isnt an issue, as long as its soil moisture needs are met.
Star of bethlehem flower – growing and care
FAQ
Is the Star of Bethlehem flower invasive?
Description: Star-of-Bethlehem is an herbaceous perennial that has been used as an ornamental. However, this plant is very invasive. This plant overwinters as a bulb with flowers produced in the spring.
Does Star of Bethlehem come back every year?
Star of Bethlehem flower is a perennial plant, meaning it regrows year after year, although some species are much less hardy than others and should be brought indoors for winter.
Is the Star of Bethlehem flower poisonous to touch humans?
All parts of this plant are poisonous to both humans and to animals.
Can you touch the Star of Bethlehem flower?
All plant parts of the star of Bethlehem are highly toxic.