Ornithogalum umbellatum

Ornithogalum umbellatum, also known as the Star of Bethlehem, is a perennial plant species in the family Asparagaceae. It is native to most of Europe and parts of western Asia and north Africa.

Description

Ornithogalum umbellatum is a bulbous plant with basal, linear leaves and a scape bearing a raceme of usually six to ten white, star-shaped flowers. The plant typically grows to a height of 10-30 cm. The leaves are 10-30 cm long and 1-2 cm broad, with a whitish midrib. The flowers are arranged in an umbel at the top of the scape. They are 2-3 cm in diameter with six white tepals, each with a green stripe on the underside. The fruit is a capsule containing black seeds.

Distribution and habitat

Ornithogalum umbellatum is native to most of Europe, western Asia and north Africa. It is also naturalized in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United States. The plant prefers well-drained soils and can be found in grasslands, meadows, forests, and disturbed areas.

Cultivation and uses

Ornithogalum umbellatum is cultivated as an ornamental plant for its attractive white flowers. It is also used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments. However, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested and can cause skin irritation.

Toxicity

All parts of Ornithogalum umbellatum are toxic if ingested. The plant contains cardiac glycosides, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to cardiac arrhythmias and death.

See also

• List of poisonous plants
• Ornithogalum