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Description
Ornithogalum Arabicum, commonly known as Arabian Starflower, is a bulbous perennial plant native to Africa and the Middle East. It belongs to the family Asparagaceae and is widely cultivated for its showy, star-shaped flowers that bloom in spring and summer. The flowers are white with green centers and can grow up to 2 inches in diameter. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Ornithogalum |
Appearance
Ornithogalum Arabicum has long, narrow, green leaves that grow in a basal rosette. The leaves are up to 12 inches long and 1 inch wide. The flowers grow on tall stems that rise above the leaves. The plant produces several flowers in a raceme. The flowers are white with green centers and have six pointed petals. The plant blooms in spring and summer and can produce up to 20 flowers per stem.
Care Guide
Ornithogalum Arabicum is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant the bulbs in well-draining soil. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will not bloom as well.
- Hardiness Zones: Ornithogalum Arabicum is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ornithogalum Arabicum is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. The plant may also be affected by slugs and snails, which can eat the leaves and flowers.
Habitat
Ornithogalum Arabicum is native to Africa and the Middle East. It grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and rocky slopes.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Ornithogalum Arabicum?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: What is the best time to plant Ornithogalum Arabicum?
A: Plant the bulbs in the fall before the first frost.
Q: Can Ornithogalum Arabicum be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it has well-draining soil and receives adequate sunlight.
Q: How long does it take for Ornithogalum Arabicum to bloom?
A: The plant typically blooms in spring and summer, about 6-8 weeks after planting.
Related Plants
- Ornithogalum thyrsoides
- Ornithogalum saundersiae
- Ornithogalum umbellatum
References
- “Ornithogalum Arabicum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a230.
- “Ornithogalum Arabicum.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantnop/ornithogalumarabicum.htm.
- “Ornithogalum Arabicum.” Pacific Bulb Society, www.pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/OrnithogalumArabicum.
