The Celestial Charm of Star Lilies
Often overlooked in favor of showier spring bloomers, the exquisite Star Lily—known scientifically as Ornithogalum or sometimes the Star-of-Bethlehem—is an indispensable plant for any elegant, low-maintenance garden.
If you are looking for pure, dependable white blooms that seem to capture moonlight and cluster it on a single stem, the Star Lily is your celestial answer.
The true appeal of the Star Lily lies in its geometric perfection. Each bloom is a precisely formed, six-pointed star, typically a brilliant, snowy white.
Many varieties feature a distinctive bright green stripe running down the reverse side of the petal, adding a subtle texture and depth when the flower clusters are tightly furled.
Emerging in late spring or early summer, these flowers sit atop sturdy, upright stems, making them fantastic for cutting.
Unlike many bulbs that fade quickly, Star Lilies are incredibly long-lasting both in the garden and in a vase, easily enduring two weeks indoors without losing their crisp, fresh appearance.
They offer a refined contrast planted amongst brightly colored peonies or deep blue irises.
Star Lilies are grown from small, onion-like bulbs and are remarkably tough and easy to care for, thriving in USDA Zones 4 through 9 depending on the species.
Planting: Plant the bulbs 2 to 3 inches deep in the autumn, ensuring the pointed end faces up. Sunlight: They perform best in a site that receives full sun to light partial shade. Soil: Like most bulbs, they demand well-drained soil. Soggy winter conditions are the surest way to doom your plants.
Once established, Star Lilies will readily naturalize, multiplying year after year to create ever-expanding drifts of white. Providing a reliable splash of mid-season elegance, these plants require minimal fuss, making them perfect for borders, rock gardens, or simply lighting up a shady corner.
Add the celestial charm of Ornithogalum to your landscape this year, and enjoy a miniature constellation of blooms that shine long into the summer. (Note: While beautiful, certain parts of the Star Lily plant can be toxic if ingested, so plant away from areas accessible to grazing pets.)