About
Ornithogalum pyrenaicum, the spiked star of Bethlehem or bath asparagus, is a clump-forming, bulbous perennial to around 60 cm with narrow, glaucous grey-green foliage that dies back in June. Long, tall spikes of greenish-white, star-shaped flowers are produced in June and July. A elegant and ornamental bulb for a sunny, well-drained border.
About the genus
Ornithogalum are bulbous perennials with linear or strap-shaped basal leaves and racemes of star-shaped or cup-shaped, white, yellow or orange flowers. Suitable for sunny, well-drained borders and naturalising in grass.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
Native toW & C Europe to Med
Care notes
CultivationPlant bulbs in autumn, 10cm deep, in well-drained soil in full sun; tolerant of partial shade. If sown in situ, plants may take up to five years to produce flowers
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed. If sowing in pots, leave, undisturbed, for the first two years with the occasional feed of liquid fertiliser. After this, divide the bulbs into two or three per pot, leaving to grow for another year before planting outside
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free