General Description/History

There are two types of Ornithogalum, the best known being the Chincherinch O. thyrsoides. Each stem is topped with a short spike of star-shaped white flowers with green centres that open from the bottom up. Green buds in the shape of a rocket poke out of the top of each spike. O. arabicum (Star of Bethlehem) has a long stem with a distinctive umbrella of 6 or more waxy white flowers with 6 petals. There is a green-black ovary in the centre of each flower surrounded by obvious yellow anthers. The orange chincherinch (O. dubium) is also sometimes available. These flowers are a lovely clear orange shade, and are cup-shaped.

Chincherinch is grown as a greenhouse or field crop. Most are grown in Victoria, NSW, and QLD.

Types: Star of Bethlehem, Arab’s Eyes (O. arabicum), Chincherinchee (O. thyrsoides).

What to look for

• Buy when about 1/4 of the flowers are fully open;
• Avoid bunches with wilted flowers.

Flower Care

1. Keep cool at all times.
2. Strip leaves from the lower half of each stem and wash stem ends thoroughly.
3. Recut at least 2 cm off each stem and place in water immediately.
4. Always use a preservative as this will help keep open flowers looking fresh.
5. Replace vase water with fresh preservative every day.

Interesting Facts about this Flower

The South Africans know them as “tjenkenrientjee” which is where the odd English name chincerinchee comes from.

Botanical Name: Ornithogalum arabicum, O. thyrsoides

Common Names: Star of Bethlehem, Arab’s Eyes (O. arabicum), Chincerinchee (O. thyrsoides)

Stem Length: 30 to 60 cm

Country of Origin: South Africa, Mediterranean

Available Colours: Orange, White

Season: Summer,Autumn,Winter,Spring

Availability: January,February,March,April,May,June,July,August,September,October,November,Decemeber