Ornithogalum dubium aka Sun Star
Taxonomy
Ornithogalum dubium, also known as sun star, star of Bethlehem, or yellow chincherinchee, is a bulbous perennial plant belonging to the family Asparagaceae, subfamily Scilloideae. It is native to the Cape Province of South Africa. Growing up to 30cm tall, it has narrowly lance-shaped leaves and produces dense racemes of vibrant orange or yellow flowers, measuring 2.5cm across, sometimes with a dark center. Blooming in winter and spring, this species is a popular choice for rock gardens or woodlands, particularly in areas with full sun. The Latin specific epithet "dubium" reflects its unique characteristics compared to other members of the Ornithogalum genus.
Common names
Sun Star, Snake Flower, Yellow ChincherincheeHow to care for Sun Star
Difficulty
Sun Star requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.
Water
Sun Star should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Sun Star loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Sun Star prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.
Fertilizer
The Sun Star should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Ornithogalum Genus
Ornithogalum fimbriatum Ornithogalum Fimbriatum
Ornithogalum umbellatum Star Of Bethlehem
Ornithogalum pyramidale Star Of Bethlehem
Ornithogalum ponticum Ornithogalum Ponticum
Ornithogalum Ornithogalum Sp. Western Cape
Ornithogalum narbonense Bath Asparagus
Ornithogalum nutans Drooping Star Of Bethlehem
Ornithogalum pyrenaicum Spiked Star Of Bethlehem
