About

Asphodelus fistulosus is a perennial plant that develops clumps reaching approximately 60 cm in height. It features clusters of hollow, rounded leaves that can grow up to 30 cm long. The plant produces upright stems adorned with racemes of flowers, which range from white to pale pink and exhibit a reddish-brown stripe down the center of each petal.

About the genus

Asphodelus consists of both perennial and annual species characterized by rhizomatous growth. These plants feature clusters of narrow, linear leaves at their base, while their leafless stems produce racemes or panicles adorned with star-shaped flowers. The blooms can be white or pink, with each tepal displaying a green or brown central vein.

Growing conditions

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

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Tufted
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.5-1 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants
Native to
Macaronesia, Medit. to Arabian Peninsula, Mauritius

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. Can die back in heavy, poorly-drained soil
Pruning
Flower stems can be cut back after flowering, or left to display the attractive seed pods
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by division after flowering
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free