Garden Star-of-bethlehem
Ornithogalum umbellatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–12" H × 3"–8" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 35 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Garden star-of-bethlehem is a low-growing bulb that produces clusters of white, star-shaped flowers in spring. This compact perennial forms small clumps and naturalizes easily in partial shade areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Garden Star-of-bethlehem takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Non-native species that can spread aggressively
- Considered invasive in some areas
- May look weedy when foliage dies back after blooming
Wildlife value
The spring flowers provide nectar for bees and beetles during early season foraging. However, this is a non-native species that offers limited ecological value compared to native alternatives.
Common questions
- How much sun does Garden Star-of-bethlehem need?
- Garden Star-of-bethlehem grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Garden Star-of-bethlehem bloom?
- Garden Star-of-bethlehem blooms in April, May, and June.
- Where is Garden Star-of-bethlehem native?
- Garden Star-of-bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 35 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Garden Star-of-bethlehem toxic to cats?
- Yes. Garden Star-of-bethlehem is listed as toxic to cats by the Cornell University Poisonous Plants Database (aspca.org). If your cat has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- What pollinators does Garden Star-of-bethlehem attract?
- Garden Star-of-bethlehem draws bees and beetles.
- Is Garden Star-of-bethlehem HOA-friendly?
- Garden Star-of-bethlehem takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Garden Star-of-bethlehem? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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