About

Gagea lutea, the yellow star of Bethlehem, is a small native wildflower found in scattered locations throughout Britain, each bulb producing a single, narrow, glossy, dark-green leaf and a single flower stem 10�20 cm high. A small umbel of yellow, star-shaped flowers is produced in March and April, providing an early food source for bees. A charming and delicate wildflower for a damp, shaded woodland garden.

About the genus

Gagea are small, bulbous perennials in the lily family (Liliaceae), producing one or two narrow basal leaves and small, star-shaped, yellow or white flowers in early spring. Native to Europe and Asia, they are charming and delicate early-spring wildflowers for naturalising in woodland gardens and meadows.

Growing conditions

SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeLoam
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6

Plant details

Plant typeBulbs
HabitTufted
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Native toEurasia

Care notes

CultivationNaturally occuring in moist soils found in damp woodland, hedges, rough pasture or near water. Needs humus-rich, moist but never waterlogged soil and shade in the hottest part of the year. Will naturalise in woodland or grass that is not too vigorous
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationSee bulb propagation
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free
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