Care of the bulbous plant Ornithogalum arabicum or Arabian star flower |
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The genus Ornithogalum, family Asparagaceae, includes 180 species of herbaceous and bulbous perennial plants native to the Mediterranean region, Asia, Africa and South America. Some species are: Ornithogalum arabicum, Ornithogalum thyrsoides, Ornithogalum dubium, Ornithogalum umbellatum, Ornithogalum nutans, Ornithogalum caudatum. Common names: Arabian star flower, Arab's eye, Lesser cape-lily. This species is native to South Africa. They are annual bulbous plants that reach 60 cm (23.6") in height in the flowering period. The lanceolate and ribbed leaves are light green. The showy rounded umbels bear white flowers with a black center. They bloom in late spring and early summer. They are used as annuals in borders, in beds, in pots for patios, terraces and balconies and as cut flowers for floral decorations. They combine very well with plants of the Iris, Freesia, Anemonae and Ranunculus genus. Ornithogalum arabicum grows in full sun and partial shade exposures and in hot, dry climates. It resists light frosts down to -6 ºC (21.2 ºF) if the soil is dry. The soil can be normal, well-drained garden soil with coarse siliceous sand. Transplant in early spring if the pot has outgrown. Water moderately waiting for the soil to dry completely; in summer slightly increase watering. They resist several days of drought. They do not need fertilizer. Pruning is not necessary. After flowering, the plant remains at rest and the leaves dry; bulbs can be dug up, stored in a dry, dark place, and replanted in early spring. They are plants resistant to the usual plagues but sensitive to the attack of fungal diseases due to excess irrigation. They are propagated from seeds sown in spring. |
Images of the bulbous plant Ornithogalum arabicum or Arabian star flower |
 Ornithogalum arabicum  Ornithogalum arabicum |