How to Care for a Damascus Plant
Damascus plants belong to the Ornithogalum (onion) family and are also called Star of Bethlehem and Dove's Dung. Damascus plants are a hardy perennial bulb that features thin pointed leaves and small, delicate white flowers. It is native to the Middle East and Damascus, where it got its name. It grows 6 to 12 inches high and spreads rapidly in the right location. Damascus plants are outstanding for dazzling cut flowers that last 1 to 3 weeks in an arrangement. Plant in a site that gets full day sun, with well-draining soil, avoiding areas where water puddles after a hard rain. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Add 2 to 3 inches of organic material such as compost, peat moss or bark to planting site to improve soil drainage.
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Dig holes 6 inches apart and 3 inches deep. Place one bulb in each hole, with the pointed end facing upward. Backfill with soil, pressing down firmly to cover. Water thoroughly.
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Water the Damascus bulbs weekly when the top 1 inch of soil appears dry. Bulbs will root and sprout in the fall, grow taller throughout winter, and flowers will bloom in the spring.
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Use sharp clippers to cut flowers for bouquets. Cutting the blooms does not hurt the plant.
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Leave the foliage in place after blooming has finished for the season. This allows the leaves to gather more sunlight and increase bulb size.
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Remove the leaves in late summer or fall when they begin to turn yellow and die back. The bulbs will begin a dormant phase and can be left in the ground or dug up for transplanting to another area.
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Tips & Warnings
Damascus plants do well in pots and containers.
Although related to the onion, unlike other alliums, they have no onion smell.
Damascus plants are considered invasive in some areas; planting near concrete borders or in containers will curb their natural spreading habit.
Damascus plants can be toxic if ingested in large quantities. Plant in areas not frequented by pets or children.
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Comments
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Beautiful plant but not good for my grandbabies.
