Quick read / the essentials on our Ornithogalum Bulbs
Horticulture professionals, discover the benefits of Ornithogalum with Floriverse , your specialist wholesale supplier of flower bulbs . Our exclusive offer of Ornithogalum bulbs is designed to meet the requirements of floriculturists looking for performance, originality and consistency in flower production. Thanks to their star-shaped blooms, upright habit and excellent vase life, these bulbs naturally find their place in the cut flower and potted flower sectors.
Our Ornithogalum bulbs are available in conventional, organic or untreated versions after harvest, and come exclusively from nurseries specializing in vegetative propagation. As a specialist wholesale supplier of flower bulbs , Floriverse rigorously selects each batch according to criteria of size, hardiness and vigor, to offer you a reliable and profitable growing solution.
Do you want to buy Ornithogalum bulbs with complete peace of mind? Our logistics solutions, tailored to the professional sector, guarantee you fast delivery throughout France, tailor-made technical support and a competitive price offer. With Floriverse , a specialist wholesale supplier of flower bulbs , you can be sure of buying Ornithogalum bulbs under the best conditions, whatever your cultivation or marketing model.
Introducing our range of Ornithogalum flower bulbs
At Floriverse , specialists in flower bulbs for professionals , we offer a wide range of Ornithogalum flower bulbs , adapted to the specific needs of floriculturists. This range includes:
-
Bulbs certified in Organic Agriculture , for producers committed to eco-responsible practices
- Bulbs not treated after harvest , particularly suitable for residue-free circuits
- Conventional bulbs , offering excellent profitability for intensive crops
Our wide range of organic Ornithogalum flower bulbs comes from nurseries specializing in vegetative propagation, guaranteeing professional quality and consistent flowering. Each batch is selected for its hardiness, vase life, and potential for sale on the cut flower market.
Market approach: Ornithogalum cultivation in France
Analysis of the Ornithogalum Cut Flower Market for Professional Floriculturists in France
Background to the Cut Flower Market in France
The French cut flower market remains dynamic, with growth in value and volume in 2023, despite economic tensions. Approximately one-third of expenditure on ornamental plants is devoted to cut flowers. However, France remains a major importer: 80 to 85% of flowers sold are imported, opening up market space for local producers .
Structure of French Production
Among the 2,761 ornamental horticultural businesses, only 400 farms specialize in cut flowers, concentrated in the PACA region (42%), Pays de la Loire and Île-de-France.
Position of Ornithogalum on the French Market
Ornithogalum is listed by FranceAgriMer as a "Large Flower" . Its flowering from May to July, its 40 cm stems, its star-shaped umbel flowers and its exceptional vase life make it a popular species for professional bouquets and event sales.
Production and Sales Trends
- White varieties in high demand for weddings
- Growing interest in unusual flowers in handmade bouquets
- Complementary positioning in the flowering calendar
Market Evolution (2022–2025)
-
2022–2023 : market decline (–7% volume, –9% value)
-
2023–2024 : marked recovery, 78% of purchases intended as gifts
-
2024–2025 : Global growth of +1.48%, forecast CAGR +6.3% until 2034
Distinction between Organic and Conventional Market
Conventional :
- Majority in the current offer
- Competitive prices
- Greater varietal diversity
Organic :
- Growing trend via the "slow flower" dynamic
- “Flowers of France” certification as a marketing lever
Opportunities for Professional Floriculturists
-
Product differentiation : original species
-
Local development : response to growing demand
-
Additional production window : May to July
-
Strategic monitoring : RNM quotes for price management
Our sales arguments for Ornithogalum flower bulbs
At Floriverse , we make it easy to source Ornithogalum flower bulbs from your farm with a simple, seamless process. Our quotes are free, personalized , and we guarantee a response within 48 hours via a responsive sales department . Each order comes with a comprehensive technical itinerary and personalized technical advice , provided by our dedicated technical support .
We offer Ornithogalum flower bulbs at producer prices , from specialist nurseries , with unbeatable value for money . Professional quality is at the heart of our selection, with careful delivery throughout France , possible within 15 days in season , or bookable in advance .
Our customers can buy online or in bulk , with decreasing prices according to volume , for a solution perfectly adapted to professional floriculturists looking for performance and reliability.
Technical presentation for the cultivation and marketing of Ornithogalum
Botanical identification and taxonomic positioning
Ornithogalum, commonly known as star of Bethlehem , meadow lily , or eleven o'clock lady , has the full scientific name of Ornithogalum umbellatum L .. This bulbous plant belongs to the botanical family Asparagaceae , formerly classified among the Hyacinthaceae or Liliaceae . The genus Ornithogalum has about 100 to more than 150 species of herbaceous bulbous plants, mostly native to Eurasia and Africa , particularly southern Europe and southern Africa . Within the botanical classification, it is located in the kingdom Plantae , the clade Angiosperms and Monocotyledons , the order Asparagales , the subfamily Scilloideae and the tribe Ornithogaleae .
Geographic origin and ecological adaptations
The geographical origin of Ornithogalum varies depending on the species. For example, Ornithogalum dubium is endemic to the Cape Province of South Africa , where it grows on granite slopes up to 500 m above sea level. Ornithogalum umbellatum , on the other hand, is native to central and southern Europe , extending from Spain and Portugal to Bulgaria and Ukraine , and also found in Asia Minor and northwestern North Africa . This species has been introduced to many regions and may even become invasive in some, such as North America .
Regarding its natural habitat , Ornithogalum adapts to different climates and biotopes . European species, such as O. umbellatum , prefer temperate climates with cold winters and moderately warm summers . South African species such as O. dubium are adapted to Mediterranean climates , characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters . In terms of altitude, O. dubium is found up to 500 m, while O. umbellatum is common in plains or low mountains without a marked preference for altitude.
These plants thrive in well-drained soils , whether clayey-stony or sandy , rich but above all not waterlogged . For O. dubium , a draining substrate, potentially a mixture of potting soil , coarse sand or perlite , is ideal. O. umbellatum grows in meadows , roadsides , edges and light lawns , always in drained and fertile soil , tolerating sun or partial shade . The ideal exposure varies from full sun to partial shade , requiring at least 4 hours of direct sunlight per day for O. dubium .
Botanical components: bulb, foliage and inflorescence
The Bulb
Ornithogalum is characterized by a tunic-like bulb . This bulb is surrounded by a protective membranous envelope , similar to that of daffodils or onions , which provides good protection against dehydration and mechanical damage , thus facilitating its transport and conservation . The bulb is generally globose in shape , which can be slightly oval depending on the species. For commonly cultivated species (such as O. ponticum , O. umbellatum , O. arabicum ), the commercial size is often between 4 and 14 cm in circumference. This corresponds to an average diameter of 4 to 6 cm and a height of 3 to 6 cm , depending on the maturity of the bulb. The outer envelope is whitish to beige , sometimes grayish , and the inner flesh is white . A notable feature is that some species, such as O. caudatum , develop a partially aerial bulb and emit numerous bulbils on the main bulb, thus promoting their multiplication . The bulbs are firm but their storage must be adapted , avoiding any stagnant humidity . Post-harvest drying and commercial size are essential criteria for sale to professionals .
The Foliage
The foliage of Ornithogalum is typically basal , linear to narrow lanceolate . Its texture is often glossy , and its color varies from dark to medium green , sometimes described as " deep green ". Many species have a conspicuous white midrib running the length of the leaf. Dimensions vary between species, with length reaching up to 30 cm in some varieties, and width usually being narrow . Some species, such as O. umbellatum , have leaves that are hollow in cross-section, while O. trichophyllum may be filiform or curly .
The foliage growth cycle generally follows an autumn-winter-spring dynamic, especially for Mediterranean species. The foliage emerges in autumn , reaches full growth in winter and spring , then enters senescence and disappears in early summer when the plant goes dormant . The total duration of foliage presence is approximately 7 to 8 months , from September/October to May/June depending on climatic conditions. The leaves form an erect rosette at the base . It is important for professionals to note that the foliage is toxic , containing glycosides similar to those of Foxglove , which can cause skin irritation and swelling if handled without protection.
The Flower
Ornithogalum flowers are distinguished by their star-like or bell- shaped shape , typically composed of 6 symmetrically arranged tepals , hence the common name " Star of Bethlehem ". The tepals are usually spread out , sometimes slightly raised , accentuating the star-like appearance. Flower size varies by species, but most cultivated individual flowers are between 2 and 5 cm in diameter. The flower stem can reach up to 30 cm in some species such as O. umbellatum or O. trichophyllum .
The dominant color of the flowers is white , often with a longitudinal green streak on the outer surface of the tepals. Some species have a greenish or silvery-grey heart. Pale yellow variants exist in other species, but white remains largely predominant. In terms of fragrance , the majority of species do not emit a strong fragrance , or only a very discreet fragrance . The flowers are grouped in inflorescences , generally in corymbs or racemes , each stem bearing between 5 and 20 flowers depending on the species and vigor. Ornithogalum are appreciated as cut flowers for their floridity and good vase life .
Plant development, height and shape
At maturity, the average height of Ornithogalum grown for flower production is generally between 30 and 60 cm , although some inflorescences can occasionally reach 80 cm to 1 m depending on conditions. For example, Ornithogalum dubium measures 30 to 60 cm , O. thyrsoides about 60 cm , and O. pyrenaicum between 30 and 60 cm .
The general habit of Ornithogalum is erect to upright . The flower stems are mostly vertical , or even slightly arched , but retain a straight and well-erect appearance, particularly sought after for professional cultivation and the production of cut flowers . The foliage is often linear , in a basal rosette , and can sometimes droop slightly after flowering , but it is the erect habit of the flower stems that defines the visual character of the plant at maturity.
Crop lifespan and seasonal behavior
Ornithogalum is a perennial bulbous plant. This means that a healthy bulb can live and flower again each year for several consecutive years, provided that the growing conditions are favorable . Flowering generally occurs in spring (April to May for spring bulbs ) or summer (July to October for summer varieties ), depending on the species. After each annual cycle, the foliage dries and the plant goes into dormancy , a characteristic of bulbous plants.
In a favorable situation, the bulb can remain in place and flower for between 5 and 10 years , or even longer if the soil is suitable and well-drained . It has even been observed that a healthy bulb can remain dormant without activity for an extended period, sometimes up to 20 months , before resuming growth. Vegetative recovery takes place the following season if the conditions are right. This longevity in place makes Ornithogalum a reliable and sustainable option for professional cultivation .
Cold resistance and hardiness depending on the species
The ability of Ornithogalum to withstand negative temperatures varies significantly depending on the species, a crucial point for cultivation in France.
-
Ornithogalum dubium is not very hardy , originating from South Africa , and does not withstand temperatures below -7 °C . Its cultivation in the ground is limited to regions with very mild winters, where it requires frost-free wintering (ideally between 10 and 15 °C in a dry place).
-
Ornithogalum narbonense (Narbonne's Star-ornament) is more hardy, being able to withstand up to -10°C in the ground. It adapts to mild Mediterranean and continental winters, corresponding to USDA zones 8a to 8b . Perfectly drained soil is essential to avoid winter rot .
-
Ornithogalum nutans is also hardy down to -10°C , corresponding to USDA zones 8a to 8b . It can remain in the ground in most French regions if the soil is well-drained .
Less hardy species need to be brought indoors for the winter in cold climates. In the case of very harsh winters (temperatures below -10°C ), it is prudent to mulch or dig up and bring in the bulbs, even for hardy varieties. The summer star-of-the-moon is generally not very hardy (around -1°C ) and requires significant winter protection .
Professional multiplication strategies
The multiplication of Ornithogalum is mainly done by vegetative methods , preferred by professionals for their reliability and speed .
Bulbil division is the most common and effective method. Ornithogalum bulbs naturally produce small secondary bulbils ( bulbils ) around the main bulb each season. These bulbils are gently separated after flowering, when the foliage turns yellow, and then replanted . Under optimal conditions, a mature bulb can produce 2 to 5 or more bulbils per year. The resulting daughter bulbs can flower in 1 to 2 years . The division operation is ideally carried out at the end of flowering (late spring/early summer) so that the young plants can establish themselves before winter.
Propagation by seed is also possible, but it is much slower . It usually takes 3 to 5 years to obtain an adult plant capable of flowering from a seedling. This method is rather reserved for varietal selection or the production of very large quantities .
Advanced techniques such as in vitro micropropagation are very effective for mass production and conservation of rare genetics . From explants (plant fragments, such as inflorescences or bulbs), it is possible to obtain several tens to hundreds of bulbs/clones in a few weeks, allowing flowering approximately 1 year after acclimatization . Other forced bulb propagation techniques ( scooping, scoring, scaling ) can also induce the rapid formation of multiple bulblets ( 5 to 20+ per bulb in one season) and reduce the time to flowering to 1 or 2 years , methods used to rapidly multiply valuable cultivars .
For professional resale , bulbs from division or in vitro multiplication are preferred for their speed and reliability .
Varietal selection: species and cultivars of interest
Several species and cultivars of Ornithogalum are marketed for their ornamental qualities , particularly for cut flowers and potted plants in France.
-
Ornithogalum dubium : A leading cultivar is ' Orange Star ', highly prized for its bright orange color . This variety is compact , reaching 25-30 cm in height in pots. Its spring flowering is often forced under glass in winter for the cut flower market. It offers excellent vase life . Recent varieties such as ' Orange Star Improved ' and ' Fire Star ' exhibit increased color intensity and vigor.
-
Ornithogalum thyrsoides : Often called " Star of Bethlehem ", it is characterized by mainly pure white flowers . Its height varies from 30 to 50 cm in cultivation and it blooms from late winter to early spring . Its sturdy flower stem makes it an excellent option for long-lasting cut flowers .
-
Ornithogalum arabicum : This species has a white inflorescence with a very decorative black heart . It is larger, reaching 60 to 80 cm in height, and flowers in spring . Its large flowers are highly sought after for high-end bouquets and benefit from good vase life .
Other species can be found on the French market , such as Ornithogalum narbonense (native to the south of France, rarely cultivated on a large scale) or O. pyrenaicum . The choice of professionals is based on the desired color (bright orange, white), the height (compact for the pot, tall for the cut) and the earliness of flowering .
Professional Culture: Requirements and Techniques
Soil preparation and drainage management
The success of growing Ornithogalum for the professional market depends on the mastery of several technical factors .
Well-drained soil is absolutely essential to prevent bulb rot . Ornithogalum prefers a well-draining clay soil that is relatively low in organic matter . An optimal mix might consist of 50% loam , 25% sand , and 25% all-purpose potting soil , or for O. dubium , 1/3 potting soil , 1/3 garden soil , 1/3 coarse sand . Excess moisture , especially in autumn and winter, is detrimental. For soils that are too heavy , adding gravel , planting on a mound , or incorporating coarse sand is recommended. The ideal soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral ( 6.0-7.0 ).
Light requirements and optimal sunshine
Ornithogalum requires abundant light . Optimal exposure is bright indirect light , with one to two hours of direct sunlight per day. Full sun , where light intensity is high, promotes robust growth and optimal health , especially for O. orthophyllum . A lack of light increases the risk of bacterial diseases . In greenhouses, supplemental lighting may be necessary in northern regions, but a combination of high light and high temperatures should be managed with shading to avoid stress .
Planting planning according to flowering
The planting schedule depends on the desired flowering period . For spring-flowering species (such as O. umbellatum ), the optimal planting period is autumn , from September to October . For summer-flowering or more sensitive to cold varieties ( O. thyrsoides ), planting is carried out in spring , from March to April .
Planting depth is generally 8 to 10 cm (about 4 inches) below the surface, although 5 to 15 cm is an acceptable range depending on the size of the bulb. A general rule of thumb is to plant at a depth equal to 3 times the height of the bulb , or about 10 cm for a 3 cm bulb . The recommended spacing between bulbs is 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 inches) to allow for good development and avoid competition. Planting in groups of at least 5 bulbs creates a better visual effect.
Irrigation and fertilization management
The water requirements of Ornithogalum vary according to its cycle . During the growth and flowering phase (winter-spring), significant humidity is necessary, the soil should be kept slightly moist but never soggy . Moderate but regular watering ( 10-15 mm of water per week ) is recommended during this period. After flowering, when the foliage turns yellow , the plant goes dormant and tolerates summer drought perfectly. Watering should then be gradually reduced , or even almost stopped . Watering should be resumed in the fall , when replanting or when the vegetation resumes .
Ornithogalum is not very demanding in terms of fertilization and prefers soils relatively poor in organic matter . Excessive nitrogen fertilizers should be avoided as they would promote foliage at the expense of flowers . A light application of a balanced slow-release fertilizer ( NPK 5-10-10 ) can be considered at planting ( 20-30g/m² ). A specific fertilizer for bulbs is recommended after flowering , while the foliage is green , to help the bulb replenish its reserves for the next flowering. No fertilizer is necessary during dormancy .
Winter protection and suitable mulching
Mulching is beneficial, especially in open ground , to maintain soil moisture during growth and protect bulbs from winter cold . It also helps reduce weeding . For less hardy varieties , a thick mulch ( litter, straw ) is necessary before frost. The recommended thickness varies ( 5-6 cm for moderate winters, 8-10 cm for severe winters). In heavy, wet soils , a mineral mulch ( gravel ) is preferable to improve drainage .
Frost-sensitive bulbs should be dug up before winter and stored in a dry , frost-free place (ideally 5-10°C ) before being replanted in spring . Hardy bulbs can remain in place if the soil is well-drained .
Maintenance practices and maintaining vigor
Ornithogalum is generally a low-maintenance plant once well established. Watering should be managed as described above, keeping the soil moist in spring but reducing moisture after flowering and during dormancy . Fertilization is limited to a post-bloom application for bulb replenishment. Mulching can help maintain moisture and limit weeds .
For hardy varieties , leaving the bulbs in place allows natural propagation over several years without any special maintenance. Frost-sensitive bulbs should be lifted and overwintered . Wilted flowers can be cut off to prevent seed production and redirect energy back into the bulb . It is crucial to allow the foliage to yellow and dry naturally after flowering before removing it, as this period allows the bulb to accumulate essential nutrient reserves for the next flowering . Repotting in a larger pot during dormancy is beneficial for bulb development.
Health prevention and quality of bulbs
Main pathogens and parasites to watch out for
Ornithogalum is generally hardy , but professional cultivation , especially under cover , can encounter certain problems.
The main risk is bulb rot , caused by soil fungi ( Fusarium , Botrytis , Pythium ) in cases of excess moisture or poor drainage . Symptoms include browning , softening and decay of the bulb , as well as faded or undeveloped foliage . This is the most common cause of loss , accentuated in greenhouses . Fungal leaf diseases ( black/brown spots ) can appear sporadically, linked to humidity and lack of ventilation .
Among the parasites , mealybugs ( Pseudococcidae ) can affect the base of leaves and bulbs , more frequently under cover . They cause cottony deposits and weakening . Infestations in open ground are rare.
Health status indicator and preventive measures
To assess plant health , a healthy bulb should be firm , free of blemishes and unpleasant odors , and uniform in color . When growing, the foliage should be a deep green and developing normally . Yellowing leaves may indicate deficiencies ( nitrogen , iron ), browning tips may indicate overfertilization or water stress , and slow growth may indicate a lack of phosphorus .
Preventive measures are crucial. Ensuring perfect drainage , practicing crop rotation for open-ground plots, aerating crops under cover , spacing plants , and watering moderately , allowing the substrate to dry between waterings, are essential. Disinfecting growing equipment is also recommended. In the event of a proven problem, targeted curative treatments can be applied ( fungicides for leaf spots, manual control or specific insecticides for mealybugs). Removing affected parts limits the spread.
Bulb losses from rot can be as high as 10-15% with poor moisture management, but can be reduced to less than 2% with strict control .
Professional promotion of Ornithogalum
Cut flowers: qualities and vase life
Ornithogalum makes an excellent cut flower . Its flower stems are thick and robust , reaching 50 to 80 cm for O. thyrsoides and 30 to 40 cm for O. dubium , very suitable sizes. Flowering is abundant , with 10 to 50 flowers per cluster for O. thyrsoides . The star-shaped shape and color ( white , creamy white , orange ) provide a sought-after aesthetic for floral arrangements . A major advantage is the excellent vase life , particularly recognized for O. dubium , ensuring the durability of bouquets . The flowering period , which can extend from June to October for some species such as O. saundersiae , offers widespread availability for the market. Limitations include the need for well-drained soil and management of bulb density to maintain quality flowering .
Landscaping and public spaces
Ornithogalum fits easily into various landscaping schemes such as flowerbeds , borders , rockeries , or in pots . In flowerbeds, a group planting ( 10 to 15 bulbs ) with a spacing of at least 10 cm and a depth of 10 to 15 cm (or even 20 cm for O. umbellatum ) creates a visual impact . It is effective in borders or rockeries where drained and sunny soil is often present. Its ability to be grown in containers offers possibilities for temporary or permanent flowering pots .
The plant has excellent naturalization capabilities . It multiplies naturally by the formation of bulbils ( cloves ) which enlarge and can be detached. Easy to grow and requiring little care once established, it flowers naturally for many years . It tolerates temperate to warm climates , withstands winter/spring humidity and summer drought well.
For communities and large public spaces , Ornithogalum is particularly relevant . Its ease of maintenance is a major asset: perennial , it remains in place for several years without major intervention, reducing labor costs . Its water requirements are low , especially after flowering , which is advantageous for the sustainable management of green spaces . It is heat resistant and prefers a sunny exposure , common in urban spaces . Flowering is long-lasting and aesthetic , with inflorescences that can reach 1 meter in height , offering a strong visual impact from a distance . The flowering period can extend from April to September depending on the variety, guaranteeing a long decorative presence . Its flowers are melliferous and attract pollinators , promoting local biodiversity .
Attractiveness to pollinators
Ornithogalum is mentioned as having some interest for pollinators in the context of entomogamy . Although precise information is limited, honeybees ( Apis mellifera ) and various wild pollinating insects are likely to be attracted to its flowers . The period of attraction corresponds to flowering . Its melliferous interest is an asset for ecological developments or areas promoting biodiversity . The use of insecticides should be avoided during flowering to protect these auxiliaries .
Pot culture, under cover and forced production
Ornithogalum is ideal for growing in pots and under cover ( greenhouses ), allowing precise control of the environment . In pots, different sizes are suitable for specific densities ( 1 bulb per 7 cm pot, 3 bulbs per 10 cm pot , 5 bulbs per 12 cm pot). In a greenhouse, the cycle can be managed to spread out or accelerate production .
The substrate must be very draining , for example a horticultural soil enriched with 30% perlite or coarse sand . In intensive production , coconut fiber ( coco-peat ) is also used. The optimal pH is between 5.5 and 6. Watering must be moderate but regular , without excess water. Misting is useful during the recovery or rooting phase. Localized irrigation is ideal in greenhouse production . Fertilization can use an NPK formula 17:10:27 ( 0.1 kg/1L , with 2 L/m³ of irrigation ) adjusted according to the stage . Optimal temperatures under cover are between 10 and 25°C .
Ornithogalum is particularly suitable for forcing in greenhouses or indoors to achieve off-season flowering . Optimal forcing conditions include moderate temperatures (around 16.5°C to 21.5°C ) and high light . High-quality , pre-cooled bulbs are required. The use of forcing fleece can create a favorable microclimate . This ability allows professionals to extend their marketing period .
Harvesting, storing and renewing bulbs
Harvesting and packaging procedures
Bulbs are harvested during the dormant period , in summer or autumn , when the foliage has completely faded and turned yellow , a sign that the bulb has replenished its reserves . It is advisable to mark the location before the foliage disappears. Carefully dig up the root ball , digging well below to avoid damaging the roots. The bulblets formed around the main bulb can be removed at this time . Dividing the clumps every four years or so is recommended to maintain vigor and flowering .
Seed harvesting is done after flowering , once the seed capsules have ripened and dried on the plant .
Storage and preservation conditions
To store the bulbs , they must be cleaned gently , sorted into healthy bulbs of good size, and dried in a dry, ventilated place . They are then stored in a dry substrate ( vermiculite , peat , sand ) in a breathable container , at a constant temperature between 15 and 20°C , in a dry place and away from light . The seeds must be cleaned , dried completely and stored in an airtight container in a dry, cool place ( 5-10°C , humidity < 15% ).
Replanting divided bulbs can be done immediately after harvesting if conditions are favorable, or they can be potted temporarily . The ideal replanting times are autumn ( September-October ) for spring varieties and spring ( March-April ) for summer varieties .
Crop rotation and soil health
Although sources do not specifically detail crop rotation for Ornithogalum, general practices for bulbous plants suggest avoiding planting after other species in the Liliaceae family or plants susceptible to the same fungal diseases affecting bulbs. A 3- to 4-year rotation is generally recommended to maintain soil health and avoid pathogen buildup . Incorporating legumes can help enrich the soil with nitrogen .
Physiological aspects and production optimization
Behavior in the face of climatic stress
Faced with prolonged drought , Ornithogalum tolerates some summer drought thanks to its bulbous reserves . However, during active vegetation (spring), supplemental irrigation to maintain soil moisture around 60 to 70% of its field capacity may be necessary. Mulching helps limit evaporation . The soil must always be well drained to avoid excess water , which is more detrimental than drought . After flowering , irrigation must be stopped gradually to respect dormancy .
In very harsh winters , the standard planting depth ( 10 cm ) protects against surface frost . Increasing the depth to 12-15 cm can be considered in very cold areas . Thick mulching ( 8-10 cm ) in winter protects against deep frost . Good soil drainage is essential to avoid excess water/frost . In the event of exceptionally low temperatures ( < -12°C ), it is recommended to cover with a winter fleece or, ideally, to dig up the bulbs to store them in a dry, frost-free place ( 5-10°C , 60-70% RH ).
Vernalization requirement
Unlike many spring-flowering bulbs such as tulips , Ornithogalum does not require a strict and prolonged cold period ( vernalization ) to induce flowering under common growing conditions . Its growth begins at moderate temperatures ( 16-22°C ). Although low-temperature cultivation can slow down the cycle , it is not a prerequisite for flower induction . The lack of a vernalization requirement is a notable technical characteristic of this crop.
Expected performance and renewal frequency
In commercial cultivation , the yield of Ornithogalum varies depending on the species and conditions. For Ornithogalum arabicum , each bulb typically produces 1 to 3 flower stems . Under optimal conditions, Ornithogalum dubium can produce several flower stems per bulb . Flowering can last from 1 to 3 months if several stems appear, which helps increase yield over the production period.
The recommended planting density for O. arabicum is 10 bulbs per m² , with a spacing of approximately 20 cm . With these parameters, a potential yield of 10 to 30 flower stems per m² can be estimated for this species. Yield is positively influenced by optimal sunlight , suitable soil composition , correct planting depth , precise watering management and adequate post-flowering fertilization .
Influence of bulb size on flowering
Dividing clumps or renewing bulbs is recommended approximately every 3 years to maintain vigor and flowering quality . This division , ideally in the fall after the foliage has yellowed , separates adult bulbs from bulblets . Divided bulbs should be replanted immediately .
Bulb size has a direct influence on vigor and flowering . Larger bulbs accumulate more reserves , producing a more spectacular bloom with more stems and flowers in the first year . For professional production , choose bulbs at least 2 to 3 cm in diameter to ensure a good start and abundant flowering . Young bulbils require 1 to 2 additional growing cycles to reach their full floral potential .
To summarize: Our Ornithogalum Bulbs
Suitable for both greenhouse and open-field cultivation, Ornithogalum stands out for its star-shaped umbel-like flowering, its hardiness, which varies depending on the species, and its high value on the cut flower market. Ornithogalum bulbs fit perfectly into professional technical itineraries, with flexible growing cycles, excellent behavior in forced production and a natural ability to multiply via bulbils.
At Floriverse , a specialist wholesale supplier of flower bulbs , each bulb reference is subject to rigorous quality monitoring. Our bulbs are delivered with technical data sheets, planting advice, and agronomic recommendations. By choosing to buy Ornithogalum bulbs from us, you benefit from professional support and calibrated batches to guarantee your cultural and commercial success.
Ready to buy Ornithogalum bulbs ? Trust Floriverse , your specialist wholesale supplier of flower bulbs , to secure your supplies and enhance your floral production with a sustainable, aesthetic, and technically manageable species. Our solutions adapt to your objectives, whether you are aiming for intensive performance or organic and local differentiation.
Limited stock - Buy now and get it delivered when you're ready to plant
