Overview

Xerophyllum asphodeloides is a perennial in the genus Xerophyllum, part of the Melanthiaceae family. Xerophyllum asphodeloides grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates sandy and well-drained soils and acidic and neutral pH. It is native to eastern United States.

About

Xerophyllum asphodeloides is a perennial known commonly as mountain asphodel with narrow, grass‑like leaves reflected in names such as grass‑leaved helonias. It favours sunny to partially shaded sites and performs best in sandy, well‑drained soils of acidic to neutral pH. The plant tolerates a range of moisture from moist to dry, making it suitable for lean, free‑draining ground. It flowers in June to July.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Xerophyllum asphodeloides

In the garden

Xerophyllum asphodeloides is a perennial from the eastern United States that carries several common names, including mountain asphodel and turkey beard. Its foliage is narrow and grasslike, and it thrives where soils are sandy and drain freely; soil pH should be acidic to neutral. The species belongs to the Melanthiaceae and is adapted to conditions that swing between moist and dry rather than persistently waterlogged ground. Give this plant a position in full sun or light shade; it will tolerate some shade but prefers a bright aspect. Avoid heavy clay and poorly drained hollows; a free‑draining sandy mix or a raised bed will suit it. Although it accepts a range of moisture, keep standing water away from the roots. In a UK setting it works well in sunny, sandy borders, gravel gardens or naturalistic perennial schemes where a narrow‑leaved form is desired. Expect flowering in June to July, when the plant produces its summer display. Locate it where the foliage can be seen at close range so the narrow leaves contribute to the planting's texture throughout the season.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Xerophyllum

Sunlight

full sun, partial shade

Soil type

sandy, well-drained

Soil pH

acidic, neutral

Soil moisture

moist,dry

Plant details

Xerophyllum asphodeloides size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

perennial

Native to

eastern United States

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Xerophyllum asphodeloides

Propagation

seed,division

Frequently asked questions