The Arabian Star Flower (Ornithogalum arabicum) is a unique bulbous perennial. Valued for its distinctive beauty, it is a favored choice for garden beds and floral arrangements. Its elegant blooms also serve as long-lasting cut flowers.
Plant Characteristics and Appearance
The Arabian Star Flower has luminous, star-shaped blossoms, typically pure white or creamy-white. Each flower features a prominent, contrasting black bead-like center. These blooms are arranged in racemes on tall, sturdy stems, reaching 18 to 24 inches. Strap-shaped, blue-green leaves form a basal clump. Flowering occurs from late spring to early summer.
Cultivation and Care
Light Requirements
Arabian Star Flowers thrive in full sun, ideally receiving over six hours of direct sunlight daily. This encourages robust growth and prolific blooming. While the plant tolerates partial shade, insufficient light reduces flowering.
Watering Needs
Arabian Star Flowers prefer drier soil. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out almost completely between sessions. Avoid overwatering, which leads to bulb rot. During active growth, maintain consistent moisture, but reduce watering significantly after flowering and during dormancy.
Soil Preferences
Arabian Star Flowers require well-draining soil. Loamy soil is preferred, but they adapt to sandy or chalky types if drainage is excellent. A soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5 is suitable. Incorporating sand, perlite, or compost improves aeration and drainage, preventing waterlogging.
Temperature and Humidity
Arabian Star Flowers prefer moderate temperatures and climates with warm, dry summers. They are winter hardy in USDA Zones 8 to 10. In colder regions, where temperatures drop below freezing, lift bulbs in fall and store indoors to protect from frost. The plant benefits from moderate humidity and good air circulation.
Fertilizing
Fertilize Arabian Star Flowers during their active growing season to support growth and flowering. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 NPK, every four to six weeks. Fertilize at planting and again in early spring as the plant emerges from dormancy. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which promotes leafy growth over flowers.
Planting and Propagation
Planting
Plant Arabian Star Flower bulbs in fall for warmer climates (USDA Zones 8-10) or in spring in cooler regions after frost. Set bulbs 3 to 6 inches deep and 3 to 6 inches apart, with the pointed end facing upwards.
Propagation
Propagation occurs through the division of bulb offsets, which are small bulbs that form around the parent. Divide these during the plant’s dormant period, in late summer or early fall. Separate and replant the new bulbs.
Potential Issues and Considerations
Arabian Star Flowers are resilient and rarely suffer from insect infestations or diseases. Bulb rot is the most common issue, resulting from poor drainage or overwatering. Ensure consistently well-draining soil to prevent this.
The plant is toxic. All parts of Ornithogalum arabicum are toxic if ingested by humans or pets. Contact with sap or bulbs can cause skin irritation. Handle with care and keep out of reach of children and household animals.