Also known as Arabian Star-Flower · Arabian Starflower · Lesser Cape-Lily
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Ornithogalum arabicum, or Arabian star-of-Bethlehem, features star-shaped white flowers with a prominent black center. Native to the Mediterranean region.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Moderate
50% intensity
Water thoroughly when topsoil is dry; reduce during dormancy.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 15-25°C during growth; cooler during dormancy.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with balanced liquid fertilizer during growing season; stop when foliage dies back.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry, usually during the growing season. Reduce watering significantly as foliage begins to yellow and die back after flowering.
Ensure good drainage to prevent bulb rot, especially during dormancy.
Remove spent flower stalks immediately after blooming to direct energy back to the bulb. Cut back yellowing and dying foliage to the ground only when it has completely withered.
This protects the bulb from disease and aids in its replenishment.
Ornithogalum arabicum is typically propagated by offsets (bulblets) that form around the parent bulb. Carefully separate these during repotting in late summer or early autumn and plant them individually in well-draining soil.
Repot bulbs every 2-3 years in late summer or early autumn, just before new growth begins. Use a well-draining potting mix and a pot that provides adequate space for bulb development and offset growth.
Ensure the pot has drainage holes.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Ornithogalum Arabicum (Ornithogalum arabicum)
Where Ornithogalum Arabicum (Ornithogalum arabicum) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Ornithogalum |
| Species | Ornithogalum arabicum |
Similar in genus Ornithogalum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
