Name: Ornithogalum White (Regular) - 50 bulbs p-pack
SKU: 0130212100P
Availability: InStock

Ornithogalum ‘White’ (commonly known as Star-of-Bethlehem) is a beautiful bulbous perennial known for its pure white star-shaped flowers that bloom in spring. It’s a hardy and low-maintenance plant that thrives in various South African climates, especially in gardens, flower beds, and rock gardens. Here’s how to grow and care for Ornithogalum ‘White’ in South Africa.

1. Best Growing Conditions

✅ Climate:

Ornithogalum ‘White’ thrives in mild to temperate climates.
It grows best in regions such as the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal where winters are cooler, and summers are moderate.
The plant can tolerate some frost during winter but generally prefers areas with mild winters and dry summers.

✅ Sunlight:

Full sun to partial shade is ideal for Ornithogalum.
For the best flowering, the plant should receive at least 4–6 hours of sunlight per day.
In hotter areas, providing afternoon shade can protect the plant from the intense midday heat, especially during summer.

✅ Soil Requirements:

Ornithogalum prefers well-draining soil, and it thrives in loamy, sandy, or gravelly soils that are rich in organic matter.
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage to avoid bulb rot. If you have clay-heavy soil, consider adding organic matter or sand to improve drainage.

2. Planting Ornithogalum ‘White’ Bulbs

✅ Best Planting Time:

Autumn (April to May) is the best time to plant Ornithogalum bulbs in South Africa, allowing them to establish roots before the cooler winter months.
Spring planting is possible in warmer regions, but the flowers may bloom later in the season.

✅ Depth & Spacing:

Plant the bulbs about 5–10 cm deep (with the pointed end facing up).
Space bulbs about 10–15 cm apart to allow for proper growth and spread.
For a natural, massed look, plant bulbs in groups for a dramatic effect.

✅ Container Growing:

Ornithogalum bulbs can be grown in containers, making them ideal for patios and small garden spaces.
Use a well-draining potting mix in containers, and ensure that the pots have drainage holes.
A pot depth of at least 20 cm will provide enough room for growth.

3. Watering & Care

✅ Watering:

Moderate watering is recommended, especially after planting the bulbs. Keep the soil slightly moist but not waterlogged.
Once established, Ornithogalum ‘White’ is quite drought-tolerant and doesn’t require frequent watering.
Water regularly during the growing season (late winter to spring) but reduce watering after flowering as the plant goes into dormancy in summer.

✅ Fertilizing:

Slow-release fertilizer or compost can be added to the soil at planting time to provide initial nutrients for healthy growth.
During the growing season, you can apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–3 weeks to promote strong growth and blooms.
After flowering, stop fertilizing and allow the plant to enter its dormant phase.

✅ Mulching:

Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and keep the soil temperature consistent.
Mulch also suppresses weed growth and helps keep the roots cool during summer.
Be careful not to pile mulch up around the bulb itself.

4. Flowering & Dormancy

✅ Bloom Time:

Ornithogalum ‘White’ produces pure white star-shaped flowers in late spring to early summer, usually from September to November.
The flowers appear on tall stems (30–45 cm) and are highly attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies.

✅ After Flowering Care:

After blooming, deadhead the flowers to encourage the plant to conserve energy in the bulb for the next growing season.
Allow the foliage to die back naturally, as this helps the bulb store nutrients for future growth.
Do not cut back the leaves until they have yellowed and dried out, which usually occurs in late spring or early summer.

✅ Lifting & Storing Bulbs (Optional):

In wet areas or regions with heavy rains during summer, you may want to lift the bulbs after flowering and store them in a cool, dry place until you are ready to plant them again in autumn.
In most regions, however, Ornithogalum bulbs can be left in the ground and will naturalize year after year.

5. Pests & Diseases

✅ Common Pests:

Ornithogalum is generally resistant to pests, but it may occasionally attract aphids or snails/slugs.
Aphids can be controlled using neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Slugs and snails can be deterred with slug pellets or copper tape.

✅ Diseases:

Bulb rot: Avoid waterlogged soils by ensuring good drainage. If bulbs are planted in wet conditions, they are prone to bulb rot.
Botrytis (Grey Mold): To prevent mold, avoid overhead watering and ensure the plant has proper air circulation.

6. Propagation

✅ By Bulbs (Easiest Method):

Ornithogalum will naturally form offsets (small bulbils) over time. These can be carefully separated and replanted in autumn to create new plants.
Propagation by bulbs is the most common and easiest method.

✅ By Seed (Advanced Method):

Ornithogalum can also be propagated by seed, though this is a slower process and may take several years to achieve flowering.
Collect seeds from the spent flowers, and sow them in a cool, shaded location. Germination can take several months.

7. Companion Planting

Ornithogalum ‘White’ pairs beautifully with other spring-blooming bulbs, such as Tulips, Narcissus (Daffodils), and Freesias.
It works well in rock gardens, border plantings, and as ground cover.
Its white flowers also look striking next to violet, purple, or yellow plants.
Low-growing plants like Lavender or Thyme complement its upright growth and add fragrance to your garden.

Conclusion

Ornithogalum ‘White’ is an elegant, easy-to-grow bulb that will add a touch of purity and charm to your South African garden. With minimal care and attention, it thrives in a variety of conditions, making it an excellent choice for beds, borders, or containers. By following the recommended planting and care guidelines, you can enjoy stunning white flowers year after year. 🌸