Plant Description
Ornithogalum campanulatum U. & D.Müll.-Doblies, commonly known as the bell flower star-of-Bethlehem, is a perennial plant species belonging to the Asparagaceae family. The plant is native to the Cape Floristic Region in South Africa, particularly in the Western and Eastern Cape provinces. It grows up to 30 centimeters (12 inches) tall and forms a compact cluster of bulbs with narrow leaves and bell-shaped flowers.
General Appearance
The bell flower star-of-Bethlehem plant has slender, erect stems that bear narrow leaves that measure about 5-15cm long and 10-15mm wide. The plant produces pale greenish-white to brownish-yellowish bulbs that are ovoid, corm-like, and up to 15mm in diameter. Its flowers are bell-shaped, white or cream in color, with a green stripe in the center of the outer petals and grow in dense, upright spikes that are about 10-40 cm long.
Common Names
The Ornithogalum campanulatum U. & D.Müll.-Doblies goes by the common names bell flower star-of-Bethlehem, campion, chincherinchee, snotbol and Easter lily.
Uses
The bulbs of the Ornithogalum campanulatum U. & D.Müll.-Doblies contain toxic alkaloids and are poisonous when ingested. However, its bulbs have been used in traditional medicine to treat some ailments such as respiratory infections and skin disorders. Additionally, the plant is grown for ornamental purposes due to its strikingly beautiful appearance and is used in garden decoration, cut flowers, and to brighten up indoor spaces in pots and vases.
Light Requirements
Ornithogalum campanulatum U. & D.Müll.-Doblies prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can survive in partial shade but will thrive in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves, so it is advisable to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day if the plant is grown in a sunny location.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Ornithogalum campanulatum U. & D.Müll.-Doblies is between 18-25°C (65-77°F). The plant will not tolerate temperatures below 10°C (50°F) or above 30°C (86°F). In regions with cold winters, it is best to keep this plant indoors or in a greenhouse during the winter months to protect it from freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Ornithogalum campanulatum U. & D.Müll.-Doblies should be well-draining and have a pH level of around 5.5-7.5. A mix of well-draining potting soil, sand, and perlite should work well. It is crucial not to let the soil become waterlogged, as it can lead to root rot. Water the plant only when the top inch of the soil is dry to the touch.
Cultivation methods
Ornithogalum campanulatum U. & D.Müll.-Doblies is a relatively easy plant to cultivate and care for. It prefers well-draining soil and is drought resistant. This species can be grown in containers or planted directly in the ground. It requires partial shade to full sun exposure, depending on the location and climate.
Watering needs
Ornithogalum campanulatum U. & D.Müll.-Doblies requires moderate watering during the growing season, depending on soil conditions, temperature, and humidity levels. The plant should be watered deeply at intervals, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions. It is important to avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot, which can be fatal for the plant.
Fertilization
Fertilization of Ornithogalum campanulatum U. & D.Müll.-Doblies will help provide the necessary nutrients that the plant needs for optimal growth and flowering. Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, adding once every two weeks. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and dosage recommendations when applying the fertilizer.
Pruning
Pruning of Ornithogalum campanulatum U. & D.Müll.-Doblies is typically done to remove dead or dying foliage. This helps improve the overall appearance and promotes the growth of new, healthy foliage. Pruning is also done after the plant has finished blooming to remove any spent flower heads.
Propagation of Ornithogalum campanulatum U. & D.Müll.-Doblies
The propagation of Ornithogalum campanulatum U. & D.Müll.-Doblies can be done through three methods: sexual, asexual and tissue culture.
Sexual propagation
The seeds of Ornithogalum campanulatum can be sown in pots or directly on the ground during spring. The seeds germinate around 4-6 weeks, after which they can be transplanted into their final location. The seedlings of Ornithogalum campanulatum can start flowering in the second year after sowing.
Asexual propagation
Ornithogalum campanulatum can also be propagated vegetatively through offsets. Bulbs of the plant develop offsets around the central bulb. In the fall, when the plant is dormant, the offsets can be detached from the mother plant and planted in individual pots or directly on the ground.
Tissue culture propagation
Tissue culture propagation is a method of propagating plants where a small piece of the plant is used to produce several plants. Tissue culture propagation of Ornithogalum campanulatum can be done in a laboratory.
The steps involved in the tissue culture propagation of Ornithogalum campanulatum include:
- Collection of small pieces of the plant tissue from the sterile environment.
- Preparation of nutrient media that is specific to the plant's requirements.
- Inoculation and propagation of these pieces of cells or tissue on the nutrient media in a sterile environment.
- Root formation and plantlet growth.
- Transferring the plantlets to pots or greenhouses.
- Hardening, acclimatizing and growing them until transplanting.
Disease Management
Ornithogalum campanulatum is susceptible to various diseases. The common diseases that affect this plant are:
- Leaf spots: caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. They appear as small, circular, or irregularly shaped areas on leaves. Infected leaves may drop prematurely, leading to reduced plant growth. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves, keep the plant dry, and avoid overhead watering.
- Root rots: caused by soil-borne fungi and bacteria. They cause root discoloration, decay, and plant death. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering and waterlogging the soil. Improve soil drainage, and use well-draining soil.
- Powdery mildew: caused by fungi. It appears as a white or gray powdery coating on leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage this disease, improve air circulation around the plant, avoid overcrowding, and provide adequate ventilation. Also, use fungicides and remove infected leaves.
Pest Management
Ornithogalum campanulatum is also susceptible to insect pests. The common pests that affect this plant are:
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on plant sap. They cause distorted, curled, or yellowed leaves. To manage them, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
- Spider mites: These are tiny insects that suck plant sap and leave small, yellow spots on leaves. They also produce webs around the plant. To manage them, spray plants with a strong stream of water, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Thrips: These are small, slender insects that feed on plant sap, causing distorted or discolored leaves. To manage them, remove and dispose of infected plant parts, use yellow sticky traps, or spray the plant with insecticidal soap.
Regularly inspecting the plant for any signs of disease or insect infestation is the best prevention method. Early detection and management can prevent the spread of disease and pests, leading to a healthy and thriving plant.
