An In-Depth Guide to the Stunning Purple Star of Bethlehem Flower

The star of Bethlehem flower, also known as Ornithogalum umbellatum, is an eye-catching spring bulb known for its star-shaped white blooms. While most commonly seen in white, a beautiful purple variety exists that makes a striking addition to the garden.

In this complete guide, we’ll explore the origins, growth habits, and care for the mesmerizing purple star of Bethlehem flower.

Overview of the Purple Star of Bethlehem

The purple star of Bethlehem belongs to the genus Ornithogalum, which contains around 200 species of flowering bulbs It is a hybrid variety developed from the species Ornithogalum dubium, which bears orange flowers

The purple star of Bethlehem boasts petite, six-petaled blooms in vibrant shades of purple, violet, and mauve. The flowers emerge on slender stalks, up to 8 inches tall, above grassy green foliage Each bulb produces a spray of 10-20 delicate blooms

This hardy flower thrives in USDA plant hardiness zones 4-9. It flowers primarily in spring but may rebloom sporadically in summer. The purple color is a unique change from the more common white selection.

Origins and History

The star of Bethlehem flower traces its roots to Europe, western Asia, and the Mediterranean It grows abundantly across southern Europe and was likely brought to America in the mid-1800s as an ornamental garden plant

The wild species is considered invasive in many parts of the United States, but cultivated hybrids like the purple star of Bethlehem are sterile and do not spread aggressively.

According to legend, the flower sprang up where fragments of the biblical Star of Bethlehem fell from the sky. This apocryphal tale led to its whimsical nickname, “star of Bethlehem.”

Optimal Growing Conditions

To achieve the best growth and maximum flowers, provide the following conditions for purple star of Bethlehem:

• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade

• Soil: Average, well-draining garden soil

• Water: Moderate moisture during growth and bloom period

• Temperature: Average cool-season temperatures

• Fertilizer: Occasional light feeding in spring

• Hardiness Zones: 4-9

This plant can tolerate partial shade but produces the most abundant flowers in a spot with at least 6 hours of direct sun daily. Avoid overly rich soil, which can lead to floppy growth. Consistent moisture is appreciated while actively growing and blooming.

How to Plant Purple Star of Bethlehem Bulbs

For best results, plant the purple star of Bethlehem bulbs in the fall. This allows the bulbs to establish roots before sending up foliage and flower spikes in spring. Follow these tips:

• Select a site with well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.

• Work compost or bulb fertilizer into the soil if needed to enrich it.

• Plant the bulbs 4-6 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart in early fall.

• Water the bulbs at planting time, then provide 1 inch of water weekly until the ground freezes.

• Consider combining the purple blooms with white and orange star of Bethlehem bulbs for a delightful spring display.

• Plant in drifts or clusters of 10-20 bulbs for greater visual impact. The purple color is most prominent when massed together.

Caring for Purple Star of Bethlehem Flowers

With proper care, the purple star of Bethlehem flower will continue providing joy for many years. Follow these growing and maintenance tips:

• Water thoroughly after planting and provide supplemental water during drought.

• Apply an organic bulb fertilizer or compost annually in early spring.

• Remove spent flower stems after blooming finishes to limit self-seeding.

• Allow the foliage to die back completely before removing it.

• Lift and divide the bulbs every 3-4 years if they become overcrowded. Replant the largest bulbs immediately.

• Plant in containers for portability and ease of overwintering in cold climates.

Tips for Maximizing Flowering

The purple star of Bethlehem flower blooms heavily for 2-3 weeks in late spring. Here are some tips for encouraging the most abundant floral display:

• Plant in full sun to trigger prolific blooming.

• Provide consistent moisture while the plant is actively growing and flowering.

• Avoid overfertilizing, which can cause lush foliage at the expense of flowers.

• Plant drifts or clusters of at least 10-20 bulbs for better visual impact.

• Remove spent blooms promptly to conserve the plant’s energy.

• Allow the foliage to die back naturally; don’t braid or cut it until it browns completely. Healthy foliage produces the energy needed for next year’s flowers.

Overwintering Purple Star of Bethlehem Bulbs

The purple star of Bethlehem bulb is winter hardy in zones 4-9. It will likely survive outdoors year-round unless you’re in an area prone to deep freezes. To be safe, consider these overwintering options:

• In zones 4-6, lift bulbs after the foliage fades completely and store them in a cool, dry spot over winter. Replant them in fall.

• In zones 7-9, mulch the bulbs with 4-6 inches of shredded bark, leaves, or straw in late fall to insulate the soil. Pull the mulch away in spring as growth resumes.

• For convenient protection, plant bulbs in containers that can be moved into a protected area like an unheated garage over winter.

With proper overwintering care, the hardy purple star of Bethlehem bulb will emerge each spring to produce another dazzling floral display.

Troubleshooting Problems

The purple star of Bethlehem flower is relatively trouble-free when grown in appropriate conditions. Potential problems include:

• Lack of flowering – Increase sun exposure, amend soil with compost, provide ample moisture while blooming.

• Foliage yellowing or dying prematurely – Improve drainage, avoid overwatering.

• Failure to emerge in spring – Check for rodent damage to bulbs, replace damaged bulbs promptly.

• Bulbs rotting – Plant in well-draining soil, reduce watering when dormant.

Catch issues early and adjust care promptly to keep bulbs flowering healthfully each season.

Enjoying Purple Star of Bethlehem Flowers in the Garden

With its eye-catching color, petite size, and hardy nature, the purple star of Bethlehem flower provides an easy and elegant way to welcome spring. Mass a drift of the vibrant blooms along walkways, at woodland edges, or in rock gardens for a stunning floral display. Pair them with other spring-blooming bulbs for waves of color.

If you love unique flower bulbs that herald the changing seasons, give the purple star of Bethlehem a try this spring. With a little bit of planting and care, you’ll enjoy their cheerful blooms for many years to come.