The Beautiful yet Invasive Drooping Star of Bethlehem Flower

The drooping star of Bethlehem, also known by its scientific name Ornithogalum nutans, is a bulbous perennial plant that produces graceful nodding flowers in spring Native to parts of Europe and Asia, it has been introduced to North America as an ornamental garden plant With its dangling white blooms and grassy foliage, the drooping star of Bethlehem is undeniably lovely. However, this plant has become invasive in some areas, posing a threat to native wildflowers.

Overview of Drooping Star of Bethlehem

Drooping star of Bethlehem emerges in early spring, sending up leafless stems topped with charming flowers. Each plant can produce 10-15 blooms on spikes rising 1-2 feet tall. The flowers consist of six tepals which spread out into a star shape. Tepals are similar to petals but are actually modified leaves. The tepals are white with a green stripe on the backside.

After the spring blooms fade, slender green foliage appears. The narrow leaves remain through summer before dying back in fall. The plant spreads through bulblets and abundant seeds, forming large drifts in ideal growing conditions.

This species is closely related to the smaller common star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum). Both were introduced as ornamentals from Europe.

Growing Conditions

Drooping star of Bethlehem thrives in the following conditions:

• Full sun to partial shade
• Moist, well-drained soil
• Zones 5-9

It flourishes along streams and floodplains and will grow aggressively once established. Container growing can help restrain spread.

Symbolic Meaning

All star of Bethlehem flowers carry religious symbolism due to their biblical name and star shape. Specific meanings include:

• Purity
• Hope
• Reconciliation
• Honesty

The flowers are popular in arrangements for christenings, Easter and other Christian events.

Invasive Status

While lovely in controlled settings, both drooping and common star of Bethlehem have become invasive in parts of North America. They spread rapidly once introduced and will displace native wildflowers over time. Both plants have been labeled invasive in over 10 states, from Wisconsin to Virginia.

Star of Bethlehem forms dense colonies that crowd out spring ephemerals like trillium, bloodroot and violets. Removing the deep bulbs is difficult, so prevention and early control are important.

Control and Removal

To control drooping star of Bethlehem in areas where it is invasive:

• Dig up bulbs, roots and all, as soon as infestations are spotted
• Remove flowers before they set seed
• Monitor areas for several years since bulblets may sprout again
• Plant native alternatives like Virginia bluebells or wild ginger
• Do not purchase or propagate this plant in regions where it is non-native

Vigilance is needed to prevent this aggressive bulb from taking over natural areas. Avoid using it in gardens adjacent to parks and woodlands.

Alternatives to Grow

Many gardeners want beautiful spring blooms without the invasive risks. Some safe star of Bethlehem alternatives include:

• Summer snowflake (Leucojum aestivum)
• Snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis)
• Snowflake windflower (Anemone sylvestris)
• Glory-of-the-snow (Chionodoxa species)

These provide similar charm without becoming a nuisance in natural settings. Always choose non-invasive plants, especially when gardening near protected wilderness areas.

The Draw yet Danger of Drooping Star of Bethlehem

With its nodding white bells, the drooping star of Bethlehem flower provides graceful spring beauty. However, the same traits that make it so appealing to gardeners allow it to spread rapidly in the wild. By understanding this plant’s invasive potential, gardeners can make responsible choices and prevent ecological harm. Enjoy this special flower where it belongs – leave it out of natural areas where it can become a pest.