Which Ornithogalum species is most frequently associated with the common name Star of Bethlehem?
Answer
*Ornithogalum umbellatum*
While the genus *Ornithogalum* contains several species, the common name Star of Bethlehem is overwhelmingly applied to *Ornithogalum umbellatum*. This specific species is well-known for its attractive, star-shaped white flowers which typically feature six tepals and appear during the spring season. Although native to parts of Europe and Asia, *O. umbellatum* has successfully naturalized in various regions, most notably in North America where it has developed a reputation for being an aggressive spreader, complicating its management in established landscapes.
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