Star of Bethlehem – 6/2/11

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/2/11

Observation Time: 1:05 p.m.

Observation Location: Gavins Pond Road near soccer field parking lot

Common Name: Star of Bethlehem

Scientific Name: Ornithogalum umbellatum

Comments: The Star of Bethlehem is a genus (Ornithogalum) of perennial plants native to southern Europe belonging to the family Hyacinthaceae. Growing from a bulb, it has grass-like basal leaves and a slender stalk, up to 30 cm tall, bearing clusters of star-shaped white flowers striped with green.

More Information: Illinois Wildflowers