Rock-lily
Arthropodium cirrhatumfam. Asparagaceae
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Pl. EECF — Arthropodium cirrhatum
Arthropodium cirrhatumArthropodium cirrhatumArthropodium cirrhatumArthropodium cirrhatumArthropodium cirrhatumArthropodium cirrhatumArthropodium cirrhatumArthropodium cirrhatumArthropodium cirrhatumArthropodium cirrhatumArthropodium cirrhatumArthropodium cirrhatumArthropodium cirrhatumArthropodium cirrhatum
IOverview
Overview
Rock-lily (Arthropodium cirrhatum) is a perennial plant belonging to the Asparagaceae family and can be found in moist, light soil conditions across its range. Known for its edible roots, this plant thrives in full sun and grows up to 1 meter tall. Native to areas with hardiness zones 7-10, rock-lily is both ornamental and useful as a food source. One distinctive feature of the rock-lily is its ability to adapt well to sandy or medium soil types, making it a versatile addition to gardens in suitable climates.
Quick answers
What is Rock-lily?
Rock-lily (Arthropodium cirrhatum) is a perennial plant belonging to the Asparagaceae family and can be found in moist, light soil conditions across its range. Known for its edible roots, this plant thrives in full sun and grows up to 1 meter tall.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Rock-lily thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that is light (sandy) to medium in texture. It grows best in hardiness zones 7-10 and reaches a height of about 1 meter. Propagate via division or seed. The edible parts are the roots, which can be harvested for use.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
7-10
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Rock-lily for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, low-maintenance approach to growing Rock-lily.
- 1
What you'll need
A small rock-lily plant or seeds, a pot or garden bed, good quality soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use light, sandy soil with medium moisture retention. Ensure drainage is good.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant a small plant or sow seeds directly into moist soil at a depth of about 1 cm.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and place in full sun. Watch for signs of stress.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly to maintain moisture levels but avoid overwatering. Provide full sun exposure.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and spent flowers to encourage new growth and a neat appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting to prune.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The rock-lily's root is edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. Typically, it is prepared by boiling to soften the texture before consumption. Skip the detailed recipe as instructed.
Contextrange · companions · related
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Specimen gallery
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8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Asparagaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Asparagaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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