Ornithogalum narbonense

RHS Plant Profile
Narbonne star of Bethlehem
Bulbs

A bulbous perennial to 90cm tall, with linear, grey-green leaves to 60cm long and narrowly conical racemes of starry white flowers 2cm across, in late spring and early summer

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0-0.1 metre

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0-0.1 metre
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H4

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Asparagaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling TOXIC to pets if eaten (dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents) - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus
Ornithogalum are bulbous perennials with linear or strap-shaped basal leaves and racemes, sometimes contracted, of star-shaped or cup-shaped, white, yellow or orange flowers
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Mediterranean to W Iran

How to Grow

Cultivation

Plant 10cm deep in autumn in any moderately fertile, well-drained soil

Propagation

Propagate by seed, sown in autumn or spring, in containers in a cold frame or separate offsets when dormant

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free