Overview

Asphodelus albus subsp. villarsii is a tufted herbaceous perennial in the genus Asphodelus, part of the Asphodelaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Asphodelus albus subsp. villarsii 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 albus subsp. villarsii is a herbaceous perennial cultivar within the Asphodelus genus, known for its tufted habit and deciduous foliage. This plant thrives in full sun and is suitable for south, west, or east-facing aspects, tolerating both exposed and sheltered conditions. It prefers well-drained soils such as chalk, loam, or sand, across a range of pH levels from acid to alkaline. Hardy to UK zone H4, it is ideal for Mediterranean-style gardens and gravel areas, offering interest during summer and autumn. Propagation can be achieved by seed sown in spring or by division after flowering.

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 albus subsp. villarsii 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 albus subsp. villarsii

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 albus subsp. villarsii?

Asphodelus albus subsp. villarsii prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Asphodelus albus subsp. villarsii need?

Asphodelus albus subsp. villarsii 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 albus subsp. villarsii hardy in the UK?

Asphodelus albus subsp. villarsii 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 albus subsp. villarsii?

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