Overview

Asphodelus aestivus Cally Spear strain is a tufted herbaceous perennial in the genus Asphodelus, part of the Asphodelaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Asphodelus aestivus Cally Spear strain grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include mediterranean climate plants and gravel garden.

About

Asphodelus aestivus Cally Spear strain is a herbaceous perennial cultivar within the Asphodelus genus, known for its tufted habit and deciduous foliage. Like other members of its genus, it produces leafless stems bearing racemes or panicles of star-shaped flowers during summer and autumn. This cultivar thrives in full sun and is suited to south-, west-, or east-facing aspects, preferring well-drained soils such as chalk, loam, or sand with a range of pH levels. It is hardy to UK zone H4 and is suitable for Mediterranean-style or gravel gardens.

About the genus

Asphodelus is a genus of mainly perennial flowering plants in the asphodel family Asphodelaceae that was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753. The genus was formerly included in the lily family (Liliaceae). The genus is native to temperate Europe, the Mediterranean, Africa, the Middle East, and the Indian subcontinent, and some species have been introduced to, and are now naturalized in, other places such as New Zealand, Australia, Mexico and southwestern United States.

Wikipedia contributors, "Asphodelus", CC BY-SA 4.0Asphodelus

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Asphodelus

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

Plant details

Asphodelus aestivus Cally Spear strain size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Tufted
Foliage
Deciduous
Suggested uses
Mediterranean climate plants, Gravel garden

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Asphodelus aestivus Cally Spear strain

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

Where is the best place to plant Asphodelus aestivus Cally Spear strain?

Asphodelus aestivus Cally Spear strain prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Asphodelus aestivus Cally Spear strain need?

Asphodelus aestivus Cally Spear strain 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.

Is Asphodelus aestivus Cally Spear strain hardy in the UK?

Asphodelus aestivus Cally Spear strain has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

How do I propagate Asphodelus aestivus Cally Spear strain?

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