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.
This plant is toxic to both people and pets.
Star of Bethlehem Care
In proper conditions, star of Bethlehem bulbs grow quickly.
In many states, this foreign plant earns a severe “Do Not Plant” warning against invasiveness.
Check with local experts before inviting this plant into your garden.
Its flowering will be better in full sun.
Soil
Star of Bethlehem likes loamy soil.
Sharp soil drainage is key for healthy growth.
In waterlogged soil, the bulbs can rot.
Mature plants have some tolerance for dry soil, but they still prefer a moderate amount of moisture.
Stop watering when the foliage begins to turn yellow after the flowers are spent.
Humidity also typically isn’t an issue, as long as its soil moisture needs are met.
Fertilizer
Star of Bethlehem flowers best when grown in rich soil.
Mix somecompostinto the soil each spring to promote healthy growth.
Additional fertilizing is not necessary, and may even hinder flowering.
However, resist the urge to remove that foliage.
As long as it stays green, it will be feeding the bulbs through photosynthesis.
Pruning Tip
No pruners?
Avoid letting the bulbs soak in cold wet ground, as this can encourage bulb rot.
The flowers generally open about noon, then close at sunset or when the skies are cloudy.
What Do Star of Bethlehem Flowers Look and Smell Like?
They offer a lightly sweet fragrance.
Propagating offsets may require two years before they flower, and plants started from seeds can take even longer.
Patience may be all that is required.
At this time, it’s safe to prune the bulbs or plant annuals in their space.
In meadows and woodlands, it will quickly establish colonies.
TryAllium neapolitanum(daffodil garlic), a form of false onion with similar flowers.
It is hardy in zones 7 to 9.
Other species in theAlliumgenus are also available for colder regions.
Alliums are much easier to control than star of Bethlehem.
Star of Bethlehem.Invasive Plant Atlas.
Missouri Department of Conservation.
