Overview

Asphodeline lutea is a tufted herbaceous perennial in the genus Asphodeline, part of the Asphodelaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1-1.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Asphodeline lutea grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include gravel garden and mediterranean climate plants. It is native to Mediterranean to Caucasus.

About

Asphodeline lutea is a perennial that forms clumps and features slender, channelled foliage. In late spring, it produces clusters of aromatic, bright yellow blooms, each measuring up to 3 cm in diameter.

About the genus

Asphodeline encompasses herbaceous perennials and biennials that develop clumps of slender, grass-like foliage. The plants produce racemes of star-shaped yellow or white blooms atop upright stems.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Asphodeline

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Asphodeline lutea size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Tufted
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
1-1.5 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants
Native to
Mediterranean to Caucasus
Fragrance
Flower

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Asphodeline lutea

Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. Can die back in heavy, poorly-drained soil
Pruning
Although you can cut back flower stems after flowering the seedheads are attractive so can be left
Propagation
Propagate by seed, sown in pots in a cold frame in spring or propagate by division after flowering
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Asphodeline lutea?

Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. Can die back in heavy, poorly-drained soil.

Where is the best place to plant Asphodeline lutea?

Asphodeline lutea prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Asphodeline lutea need?

Asphodeline lutea is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

How do I prune Asphodeline lutea?

Although you can cut back flower stems after flowering the seedheads are attractive so can be left.

How big does Asphodeline lutea grow?

Asphodeline lutea reaches a height of 1-1.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.

Is Asphodeline lutea hardy in the UK?

Asphodeline lutea has a UK hardiness rating of H4.

How do I propagate Asphodeline lutea?

Propagate by seed, sown in pots in a cold frame in spring or propagate by division after flowering.