False Star-of-Bethlehem
Eleutherine bulbosa
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
12 inches
Width
8 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate to high
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Central and South America
Toxicity
Toxicity unknown
The Story
Plant Bio
Eleutherine bulbosa is a small, bulbous perennial with grass-like, pleated leaves. It produces delicate, star-shaped white flowers with yellow centers that open in the afternoon and close by night. Also known as 'lagrimas de la virgen' (tears of the Virgin), this plant is known for its medicinal properties, particularly its red-skinned bulbs. The flowers are ephemeral, lasting only a single day.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck bulbs 2 inches deep into well-draining soil in spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Place in partial to full sun for optimal flowering.
- Fertilize monthly during active growth with balanced fertilizer.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Divide clumps every 3 years in early spring for propagation.
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent bulb rot, especially in wet climates.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during active growing season 🌱
- Provide bright, indirect sunlight for best blooms
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot ❌
- Don’t expose to heavy shade, blooms may diminish
- Refrain from disturbing bulbs during dormancy
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Lift Store | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
False Star-of-Bethlehem questions
What zones can False Star-of-Bethlehem grow in?
False Star-of-Bethlehem is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is False Star-of-Bethlehem deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse False Star-of-Bethlehem, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does False Star-of-Bethlehem bloom?
False Star-of-Bethlehem typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does False Star-of-Bethlehem need full sun?
False Star-of-Bethlehem does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is False Star-of-Bethlehem drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), False Star-of-Bethlehem handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
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Grow False Star-of-Bethlehem with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
