Star of Bethlehem Bulbs 'in the green'

Star of Bethlehem
Ornithogalum umbellatum

'In the green’ bulbs are available from late January . This British wild flower is native only in the East of England, but has been widely naturalized throughout Britain. It grows in most soils in sun and is particularly suited to naturalising in grass. It is sensitive to the level of light and if the sky is overcast, the flowers curl up their petals by midday or earlier (reflected in some of its' local names eg Betty-go-to-bed-at-noon, Shamefaced Maiden, Eleven o'clock Lady). It is a short plant with white, star-shaped flowers appearing from April to June.

More Information:

Other Names : Dogs Onions, Betty-go-to-bed-at-noon, Shamefaced Maiden, Eleven o'clock Lady

Distribution : This British wild flower is native only in the East of England , but has been widely naturalized throughout Britain .

Habitat : It grows in most soils in sun and is particularly suited to naturalising in grass.

Description : Perennial. It is sensitive to the level of light and if the sky is overcast, the flowers curl up their petals by midday or earlier. The white, star-shaped flowers appear from April to June.

Uses: The bulbs were used as food before 15 ^th century, hence the name 'Dogs Onions'.

Planting Instructions for 'In The Green' Bulbs: The bulbs should be planted as soon as you receive them. They are best planted where they can be left undisturbed. If the earth is frozen solid, then you’ll need to wait until it is crumbly again. If you do need to wait for a couple of days, sink the bulbs in some damp compost in a sheltered place until the soil is crumbly again.

Plant the bulbs as soon as possible upon receipt.

These bulbs were grown in Britain from cultivated stock.