About Ornithogalum dubium Houtt.
Ornithogalum dubium Houtt. is a bulbous perennial plant that grows up to 50 cm (20 in) tall. It produces 3 to 8 yellowish green leaves, which have ciliate margins, and its flower stalks (scapes) measure 10–25 cm (4–10 in) long. Its flowers open in winter or spring, arranged in cylindrical to nearly spherical racemes that hold 5 to 25 flowers each. The flower tepals may be orange, red, yellow, or rarely white, and often have a green or brown center at the base. The common name for the genus Ornithogalum, Star-of-Bethlehem, refers to the plants' star-shaped flowers, and is taken from the Star of Bethlehem described in the biblical story of the birth of Jesus. The Ornithogalum genus contains around 180 recognized species. In cultivation, O. dubium is sensitive to frost, and is best kept in a dry, frost-free location over winter before being repotted in spring. The key requirement for its growing medium is excellent drainage; it needs ample water during the early part of its growth cycle, and requires dry conditions while it is dormant. It should be grown in a sheltered position that receives full sun. Ingestion of O. dubium is reported to be toxic, and contact with its leaves causes skin irritation. This plant has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
