Bulbous plants usually stand out for the spectacular nature of their flowers, but few species achieve the balance between beauty and ease of cultivation like the Ornithogalum dubium. Also known as ornithogalum or "bird's milk," this plant, native to South Africa, offers a burst of orange (and sometimes yellow or white) color and durability that make it ideal for both gardens and bright interiors. Its adaptability, low maintenance, and pest resistance make it an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy greenery and blooms without complications.
Why choose the Ornithogalum dubium? This bulbous plant is compact and doesn't grow too large, making it perfect for pots, rockeries, mixed borders, or even as a cut flower. Its ease of management and high adaptability to Mediterranean or temperate climates make it a favorite for those seeking quick results and an exotic touch to their green space.
Origin, history and characteristics of Ornithogalum dubium
El Ornithogalum dubium It belongs to the Asparagaceae family and is native to South Africa, where it grows naturally in sandy, well-drained soils. Its name comes from the Greek "ornithos" (bird) and "gala" (milk), hence its popular name. bird's milk o Belen star. The gender Ornithogalum It comprises more than 100 species, although dubium is the most cultivated as an ornamental due to the intensity and duration of its flowering.
Main Features:
- Bulb globose protected by white or light brown tunics.
- Leaves linear, narrow and fleshy, bluish-green in color, and can exceed 20 centimeters in length.
- Flowering in dense panicles or clusters, with up to 30 flowers per stem in well-developed specimens.
- Flores with six star-shaped petals, usually in orange tones, although white and yellow varieties also exist.
- El main vegetative period It spans from autumn to spring, ceasing growth in the hottest months of summer.
Due to its spectacular appearance, it is used in rockeries, borders, pots, and as a long-lasting cut flower, bringing color and exoticism to both the garden and the interior of the home. In warm climates, it can remain outdoors year-round, but it can also be grown indoors provided it has good natural light.
Requirements and care of Ornithogalum dubium
Below we explain in detail how to care for a Ornithogalum dubium to obtain a healthy, long-lived plant with spectacular flowering year after year. It is one of the most appreciated bulbous plants for both beginners and advanced hobbyists.
ideal location
Light is crucial for successful flowering and growth. El Ornithogalum dubium It should preferably be placed outdoors, with full sun exposure for most of the day, although it also tolerates light semi-shade in very hot climates or intense summers. Indoors, it only flourishes if it has plenty of direct natural light (near south-facing windows or glass-enclosed patios). Lack of light causes long, weak leaves and poor flowering.
Type of soil or substrate
- Potted: Use a universal potting mix with 30% perlite to ensure perfect drainage. To further increase aeration, it's recommended to add a first layer of expanded clay (arlite) or volcanic sand to the base of the pot.
- In the garden: This bulbous plant isn't demanding when it comes to fertility, but it is when it comes to drainage. If the soil retains a lot of water or is clayey, dig a hole about 30 x 30 cm and mix it with perlite, coarse sand, or pumice. This will prevent excess moisture, which could rot the bulbs.
The ideal pH is between 6 and 7, and a mineral or soil-based substrate is always preferable for cacti (two parts substrate to one part coarse sand and one part pumice or granulated clay). In its native habitat, it thrives in poor, sandy soils, so a highly fertile substrate is not necessary for it to flourish well.
Irrigation: how and when
Ornithogalum dubium is very sensitive to waterlogging, but does not tolerate completely dry substrate during active growth. The key is to keep the soil moist but never waterlogged:
- During the phase of for Growth (fall to spring): water 2 to 3 times per week, or when you notice that the first few centimeters of the substrate are dry.
- In period of rest/latency (summer): Reduce watering to a minimum. If the leaves have dried out, a small amount of water once a month is enough to prevent the bulb from drying out in the pot.
- Indoors or if the environment is cooler, reduce the frequency of watering.
To know when to water, You can use a wooden stick (if it comes out clean, it's time to water), a digital meter, dig with a finger, or simply weigh the pot before and after watering.If in doubt, it's best to avoid watering too little: the plant tolerates light drought, but excess moisture can cause the bulbs to rot.
Fertilizer to enhance flowering
Fertilization should be done only during the active period (spring and summer), using fertilizers for bulbs rich in potassium and phosphorus. You can alternate with seaweed extracts or liquid fertilizers such as NPK 2:1:2. A widely used option is to fertilize every 15 days from when the plant begins to germinate. for Growth up to a month after flowering. If we prefer organic products, diluted worm castings or well-matured compost provide nutrients and beneficial microlife.
Keep in mind that newly repotted plants or those planted in fresh soil don't require fertilizer during their first cycle. If you've had the same pot for years, you can replace some of the soil or fertilize lightly at the beginning of the growing season.
Temperature and rusticity
It resists moderate cold, but does not tolerate intense or prolonged frostsIt can withstand temperatures close to 0°C occasionally, although it prefers environments between 10 and 25°C, especially during flowering.
In areas with very cold winters, it is recommended:
- Remove bulbs from the garden in the fall and store them in a dry, sheltered place until spring.
- Keep them in mobile pots so they can be brought indoors protected during frost.
In warm regions, it can be grown outdoors year-round, and is especially valued in mild Mediterranean and Atlantic climates.
Pruning and maintenance
After flowering, remove withered stems with clean scissors.Don't cut the leaves until they turn yellow and dry completely, as during this time the plant replenishes the bulb's reserves for the next cycle. If you dig up the bulbs, clean them and store them in dry sand until planting time.
Multiplication: bulbs and seeds
Ornithogalum dubium is propagated mainly by separating bulbs, although it can also be propagated by seeds. Bulb division is the simplest and quickest method:
- In autumn, after the plant has dormant, dig up the plant and carefully separate the small bulbs that have formed next to the main one.
- Plant each bulb in individual pots with well-draining substrate.
- Bulbs may take one or two years to flower, depending on their size.
Propagation by seed is possible, although much slower and less common in home gardening. If you decide to try it, sow the seeds in spring in seedbeds with light soil, keeping them moist but not overwatered. Germination usually takes two to four weeks.
Life cycle and summer rest
The vegetative cycle of the Ornithogalum dubium It begins with leaf growth in autumn or winter (depending on the climate). It blooms in late winter or spring, keeping its flowers open during the day and closing them at night. After flowering, the leaves gradually dry out, and the plant goes dormant for the summer, with only the bulb surviving underground.
During dormancy, minimize watering and, if grown in a pot, place the container in a cool, dry location. The bulb can be left in the same pot or dug up and stored in a dry medium (sand or wood chips) until the next planting.
Planting time and depth
The bulb of the Ornithogalum dubium It is planted in autumn, just before the arrival of low temperatures. If grown indoors, it can also be planted during the winter as long as it receives the maximum amount of light possible.
- Plant the bulb at a depth of about 5-7 cm, with the tip pointing upwards.
- Leave at least 8-10 cm between bulbs to encourage development and avoid competition for water and nutrients.
Avoid planting bulbs near the edge of the pot to prevent development problems or rot.
Common pests and diseases
Ornithogalum dubium is a fairly hardy species, but can occasionally be affected by:
- Mollusks (snails and slugs): They feed on leaves and tender shoots. Remove them manually or use physical barriers.
- Mealybugs: Cottony or limpet-like insects appear on leaves and stems. Remove with a brush and alcohol or apply a suitable insecticide.
- Fungi: Excessive moisture and poor drainage facilitate the development of rot. Treat with a fungicide and improve the aeration and drainage of the substrate.
- Bacteria (Erwinia): in very humid and poorly ventilated environments. Keep the plant well-aerated and avoid overwatering the bulb.
Regular inspection, along with proper irrigation management, is usually sufficient to keep the plant disease-free.
Uses of Ornithogalum dubium
In addition to its ornamental function, the Ornithogalum dubium It is highly prized as a cut flower, as its inflorescences can last for several weeks in a vase filled with fresh water. It is also ideal for:
- Low-maintenance rockeries and gardens in sunny areas.
- Colorful borders and bulb mixes.
- Compositions in pots or planters, even sharing space with other bulbs.
It is important to note that, although medicinal uses were attributed to it in ancient times, it is now considered toxic if ingested, so it is recommended to keep it out of the reach of pets and small children.
Extra tips for successful growing
- In very hot climates, it may appreciate some light shading at midday, especially if it is in a pot.
- To achieve more compact plants indoors, use artificial lighting (at least 8,000 Lux and days of up to 16 hours of light during the winter).
- Drip irrigation is ideal for gardens, as it maintains even moisture and reduces the risk of disease.
- Avoid over-fertilizing or over-watering during dormancy, as the bulb needs to rest.
With this care, Ornithogalum dubium will become a favorite of experienced and novice gardeners, offering one of the most striking blooms among bulbous plants each year. Its hardiness, adaptability, and long lifespan make it a perfect choice for both bright interiors and outdoor spaces protected from extreme cold. With proper care, we'll enjoy the spectacle of its star-studded flowers year after year, and over time, we can multiply our collection by obtaining new specimens from the bulbs that form around the mother bulb.
