Ornithogaloideae

Ornithogaloideae is a subfamily of flowering plants in the family Asparagaceae. It was formerly recognized as a distinct family, Ornithogalaceae, but is now considered a subfamily within Asparagaceae. This subfamily is characterized by its herbaceous perennial geophytes, meaning they grow from underground storage organs such as bulbs or corms. The leaves are typically basal and often strap-like or linear, sometimes with distinctive white or pale lines.

The flowers of Ornithogaloideae are often star-shaped and are borne in racemes or corymbs. They usually have six tepals, which are petal-like structures that are not differentiated into sepals and petals. The color of the flowers can vary, with white, cream, yellow, and sometimes greenish or pinkish hues being common. Many species are known for their attractive floral displays.

This subfamily is widely distributed, with species found in Europe, Africa, and Western Asia. They often inhabit a range of environments, from open grasslands and rocky slopes to woodlands. The genus Ornithogalum, which gives the subfamily its name, is the largest and most well-known. Other genera within Ornithogaloideae include Albuca, Pseudogaltonia, and Cathissa. Some species, like Ornithogalum umbellatum (Star-of-Bethlehem), are cultivated as ornamental plants for their attractive flowers. The taxonomy and classification of Ornithogaloideae have undergone revisions, with molecular phylogenetic studies leading to its placement within Asparagaceae.