Bath Asparagus, Pyrenees star of Bethlehem

Ornithogalum pyrenaicum

Physical Characteristics

Ornithogalum pyrenaicum is a BULB growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

S. Europe. Naturalized in Britain.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Shoots Stem Edible Uses: Young shoots - cooked[1, 5, 46, 61]. The young, unexpanded flowering shoots are cooked and served like asparagus[2, 4, 17, 177, 183].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

Skin contact with the bulb can cause dermatitis in sensitive people[65]. Any toxins in this plant are concentrated in the bulb[200].