Contents
Description
Ornithogalum Rupestre, also known as Rock Star-of-Bethlehem, is a succulent perennial plant that belongs to the family Asparagaceae. It is native to the rocky hillsides and cliffs of South Africa and forms a rosette of long, narrow, succulent leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Ornithogalum |
Appearance
The Ornithogalum Rupestre grows up to 8 inches tall and 12 inches wide. It forms a rosette of long, narrow, succulent leaves that are bluish-green in color and have a waxy texture. The leaves can grow up to 12 inches long and 1 inch wide. In the summer, it produces a tall, slender stem that can grow up to 18 inches tall. At the top of the stem, it produces a cluster of small, star-shaped flowers that are white with green stripes. The flowers are about 1 inch in diameter and have a sweet fragrance.
Care Guide
The Ornithogalum Rupestre is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil and add sand or perlite to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and can be grown indoors in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Ornithogalum Rupestre is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect this plant:
- Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs can infest the plant and cause damage by sucking the sap from the leaves.
Habitat
The Ornithogalum Rupestre is native to the rocky hillsides and cliffs of South Africa. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions. It is a popular plant for rock gardens, succulent gardens, and container gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Ornithogalum Rupestre a succulent?
A: Yes, the Ornithogalum Rupestre is a succulent perennial plant that belongs to the family Asparagaceae.
Q: How often should I water my Ornithogalum Rupestre?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Ornithogalum Rupestre?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and can be grown indoors in colder climates.
Q: What is the common name for Ornithogalum Rupestre?
A: The common name for Ornithogalum Rupestre is Rock Star-of-Bethlehem.
Related Plants
- Ornithogalum thyrsoides
- Ornithogalum dubium
- Ornithogalum saundersiae
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/star-of-bethlehem/growing-star-of-bethlehem-plants.htm
- https://worldofsucculents.com/ornithogalum-rupestre-rock-star-of-bethlehem/
- https://www.thespruce.com/growing-ornithogalum-1402686
