Star-of-Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum)
On this Christmas Day, I got to thinking about the Star of Bethlehem and wondered why a flower would have such a name. The following is what I discovered.
Very simply, the plant’s star-shaped flowers inspired its name, that after the Star of Bethlehem that appeared in the biblical account of the birth of Jesus. Because of this biblical association, this plant embraces a meaning of purity, hope and happiness.
And now, about that plant. Star-of-Bethlehem is not native to this continent; rather, it is from southern Europe and southern Africa. It is a perennial forb with a rosette of basal leaves spanning about twelve inches across, each about 6-12″ long and up to ¼” wide. The leaves curve upward from the base and bend downward around the middle. Leaves have smooth margins, parallel venation and each often has a white stripe in the middle.
Star-of-Bethlehem – Note the grass-like leaves with a white stripe along the middle of each.
Each plant has one or more flower stalks arising from the center of the basal rosette with each stalk terminating with a raceme of white six-petaled blooms. Flowers open in the morning and usually close up by noon.
Star-of-Bethlehem raceme of blooms (four fully open plus one bud)
Finally, back to the Star of Bethlehem. Read an explanation from an astronomer’s perspective; and another.
With all that being said, I want to wish you all a very blessed and Merry Christmas!
Happy trails!
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