Star Of Bethlehem Flower
Star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum spp.) is a spring-blooming bulb with crisp, star-shaped white flowers and grass-like foliage. Valued in floristry for elegant, long-lasting stems, it also naturalizes easily in gardens; handle with care due to toxicity and potential invasiveness.
Occasions & recipients - Find flowers by occasion
Best occasions
Named for the biblical Star of Bethlehem, it conveys purity, hope, guidance, and reconciliation—often chosen for spiritual milestones, remembrance, and gentle encouragement.
Card Message Ideas
Presentation Etiquette
Present simply with clean lines to emphasize the star-shaped blooms; include a care/Toxicity note if pets or children are present. For events, keep stems cool and hydrated; strip lower foliage and avoid floral foam that retains excess moisture. Clarify religious tone if gifting to non-religious recipients.
Ideal Delivery Time
For cut flowers, deliver early on the day of the event with 1–2 florets open per stem (rest in bud) for 7–14 days of vase life. For bulb gifts, deliver in autumn planting season or as potted plants in spring with care instructions.
At a glance
Key details
Quick reference for key details choosing flowers for different occasions and recipients. Use this section as a practical checklist: where they grow and what to keep in mind regarding toxicity and sensitivity.
Distribution
Ornithogalum spp. are native to Europe, the Mediterranean, and parts of Southwest Asia/North Africa; widely cultivated and naturalized in North America and elsewhere.
Conservation
Most species are not globally threatened; some (e.g., O. umbellatum) are invasive in parts of North America. Avoid wild harvesting and check local regulations on planting and disposal.
Toxicity
All parts—especially bulbs—contain cardiac glycosides (bufadienolides). Toxic to pets, livestock, and humans if ingested; can cause vomiting, diarrhea, cardiac arrhythmias. Sap may irritate skin. Keep away from children and animals.
Allergenicity
Generally low pollen exposure; sap can cause mild contact dermatitis. Suitable for many allergy-sensitive recipients, but florists/gardeners should handle with gloves.
Kingdom: Plantae; Order: Asparagales; Family: Asparagaceae (Scilloideae); Genus: Ornithogalum; Commonly used species: O. umbellatum (garden), O. arabicum (floristry).
Color Taboos
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Growing & tools
Care & gear
Growing tips
Plant bulbs in autumn 2–4 inches deep in well-drained soil; full sun to partial shade. Hardy in USDA zones ~4–9. Water lightly; allow foliage to die back naturally after bloom (late spring). Naturalizes readily—remove seed heads if spread is unwanted and avoid planting near grazing animals. Divide congested clumps after dormancy.