Star of Bethlehem -- Ornithogalum narbonense

The book of II Kings 6:25 talks about dove's dung found on the hills and cliffs. Most readers of the scripture assume these are the droppings from doves. In reality, botanists believe this is the plant we now call Star of Bethlehem. There is some doubt as to the exact species because some are actually native to Europe. Use any species available (O. umbellatum, O. nutans. O. tenuifolium) to you because they all have grasslike foliage and star shaped white flowers. It acquired the name "dove's dung" because it was so common that the hills and cliffs looked like they were covered with bird droppings. Only bulbs from the species O. narbonese could be eaten raw. The other species must be roasted or boiled before being eaten because they are poisonous. Poor people of the region eat these bulbs even today as food.

Cultivation: This plant spreads rapidly in almost any garden soil. It is considered invasive by many gardeners. The plant is hardy to -20°F. Plant about 4 inches deep or follow package directions.

Star Thistle -- Centaurea calcitrapa

The story of Adam and Eve eating the forbidden fruit is well known. Due to their deed, even the land was cursed and began to produce thistles and thorns. Botanists believe the Star Thistle is the one mentioned in Genesis 3:17-18 because it is common throughout the region.

Cultivation: Star thistle grows in both good and bad soil. It may try to act as an annual in some areas. Remove the plant completely each fall to prevent it spreading throughout your landscape.

Tulips -- Tulipa Montana

Song of Solomon 2:12 mentions a Rose of Sharon plant that flowers when the turtledove is heard in the land. This must be a spring blooming plant. Botanists believe the native tulip is the species mentioned. Unfortunately, this species is seldom available; use any red species tulips. in its place. Don't use the red hybrids that are much larger.

Cultivation: Tulips like a well-drained soil that is dry during the summer. Follow your package directions for the specific variety you purchased for planting depth and distance between bulbs.

Water Lilies -- Nymphaea alba, Nymphaea coerulea, Nymphaea lotus

These species were the common water lilies of the Holy Lands. It is believed that the lily design on the pillars of the temple porch mentioned in I Kings 7:19 were actually water lilies. If you are fortunate enough to have a pond, use any water lily species hardy in your area to represent this plant.

Cultivation: Normally these plants are sold already planted in a pot that you simply sit on the bottom of your pond or container. They must be planted deep enough that the tubers won't freeze during the winter. It is best to purchase these from local authorities who can testify to their hardiness.