Star of Bethlehem Plant Images: A Guide to These Symbolic Flowers

The star of Bethlehem plant produces beautiful white star-shaped flowers that have rich symbolic meaning. This easy-to-grow bulb has a long history of use in religious celebrations and stories.

In this article, we’ll showcase gorgeous star of Bethlehem plant images and provide tips for growing these symbolic flowers yourself.

Overview of the Star of Bethlehem Flower

The star of Bethlehem belongs to the genus Ornithogalum, which contains around 90-100 species native to Europe Asia, and Africa. Popular varieties include

• Ornithogalum umbellatum – Common Star of Bethlehem
• Ornithogalum arabicum – Arabian Star of Bethlehem
• Ornithogalum thyrsoides – Chincherinchee

These hardy perennials grow from bulbs and have arching grass-like leaves. The plants produce upright stems covered in dense clusters of star-shaped white blooms. The flowers have six tepals with a green stripe on the backside.

The blooms open fully during the day then partially close at night Star of Bethlehem bulbs multiply quickly, allowing the plants to spread into large colonies in ideal conditions They generally bloom for 2-3 weeks in mid to late spring.

These plants thrive in full sun to partial shade and prefer rich, well-draining soil. They are hardy in USDA zones 6-9. Some species are grown as houseplants in colder climates.

The Meaning and Symbolism of the Star of Bethlehem

The common name comes from Biblical stories about the nativity of Jesus. The bright star is said to have guided the three wise men to the birthplace of Christ in Bethlehem.

As a result, these flowers have become an enduring part of Christmas stories, songs, decorations, and art. They represent the nativity and birth of Jesus. The star shape also evokes cosmic energy, divine guidance, purity, and hope.

Growing Star of Bethlehem Flowers in Your Garden

With their beautiful blooms and rich symbolic meaning, Star of Bethlehem flowers are a great addition to spring gardens. Follow these tips for success:

Sun and Soil Requirements

• Plant bulbs in a spot with at least 6 hours of direct sun for best results. Light afternoon shade is okay.

• Well-draining soil enriched with compost or manure works best. Avoid soggy areas.

• Space bulbs 4-6 inches apart and 3 inches deep. Place in clusters for maximum impact.

• Bulbs multiply quickly, so start with just a few. Space clusters 12-18 inches apart.

Planting and Transplanting

• Plant bulbs in fall, about 6 weeks before your first expected frost. This gives roots time to develop before winter dormancy.

• If transplanting established clumps, do so when foliage dies back in early summer.

Watering and Fertilizing

• Water thoroughly after planting and provide 1 inch of water weekly during growth.

• Apply balanced fertilizer or bulb food at planting time. Fertilize established plants in early spring.

• Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers that cause floppy growth unable to support the flowers.

Temperature, Humidity, and Light

• Star of Bethlehem thrives in zones 6-9 and tolerates dips to -10°F when established.

• Hot, humid summers are fine. These plants love heat.

• Appreciates full sun but accepts light afternoon shade in hot climates.

• Foliage may fade or brown a bit in intense summer sun but recovers in fall.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Prune spent flower stems to the base after blooming finishes.

• Remove faded foliage in late summer to keep plants looking tidy.

• Divide overcrowded clumps every 2-3 years in early summer.

• Water occasionally during summer dry spells. Established bulbs are quite drought tolerant.

• Avoid soggy soil that can lead to bulb rot. Improve drainage if needed.

With minimal care required, Star of Bethlehem flowers will thrive and spread to provide a spectacular spring display year after year.

Growing Star of Bethlehem Indoors

The cheery blooms also make wonderful temporary indoor flowers. Follow these tips:

• Plant bulbs close together in pots with drainage holes, in rich potting mix. Use 3-5 bulbs per 6-8 inch pot.

• Keep pots cool (below 65°F) for 8-10 weeks after planting to simulate winter dormancy.

• In early spring, move to a sunny indoor spot and water when the soil surface is dry. Apply liquid fertilizer monthly.

• Rotate pots periodically for even growth so stems don’t all bend toward the light.

• After flowering, let pots dry out and leave dormant in a cool place for a couple months before watering to force another bloom cycle.

• Potted bulbs make great holiday gifts! Include care instructions so the recipient knows when to water for blooms.

Common Problems With Star of Bethlehem

These hardy plants are relatively pest and disease resistant with proper growing conditions. Potential issues to watch for include:

• Soggy soil causing bulb rot and fungal problems – improve drainage

• Animal grazing on leaves and flowers – apply repellents

• Viral diseases causing mottling/streaking – remove and destroy infected plants

• Bulb mites causing deformation – discard infested bulbs

• Nematodes leading to stunted growth – solarize soil to reduce populations

• Aphids on new growth – control with insecticidal soap or neem oil

Promptly addressing any problems will keep your Star of Bethlehem flowers looking their best.

10 Beautiful Star of Bethlehem Flower Images

Looking for stunning photos of these symbolic spring bloomers? Here are 10 gorgeous star of Bethlehem flower images to enjoy:

• Closeup of blooms with soft defocused background

• Bouquet in mason jar on rustic wood table

• Dew-kissed bloom in morning light

• Bulbs sprouting through soil in spring

• Flowers illuminated by evening light

• Blooms against a blue sky with fluffy clouds

• Single flower with selective focus

• Cluster of flowers in a colorful meadow

• Blooms peeking through grass at dawn

• White floral sea beneath a fruit tree

Save any images you like for holiday cards, artwork, social media, or decorating inspiration!

Uses for Star of Bethlehem Flowers

Beyond simply growing them in your garden, here are some ideas for enjoying these special flowers:

• Cut blooms for holiday centerpieces and arrangements

• Plant in containers for a movable holiday plant

• Allow seed pods to form for dried arrangements

• Infuse olive oil with petals and buds for cooking

• Craft wreaths, garlands, bouquets for decorating

• Preserve blooms with glycerin for pressed flower art

• Feature the flowers in nativity plays, stories, and songs

• Create nativity scenes, ornaments, and holiday decorations

However you decide to use them, Star of Bethlehem flowers will add meaningful beauty and holiday spirit to your home.

The Timeless Appeal of the Star of Bethlehem Flower

With its rich symbolic history and stunning floral display, it’s easy to see why the Star of Bethlehem remains popular today. These hardy, spreading bulbs bring effortless elegance and holiday charm to gardens and indoor displays.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this guide to star of Bethlehem plant images and how to grow these enchanting flowers yourself. May your garden evoke the wonder and blessings of that very first Christmas!