Asphodel
Asphodelus albus
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Pl. C3A6 — Asphodelus albus
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IOverview
Overview
Asphodel, scientifically known as Asphodelus albus, is a perennial plant that thrives in light to partial sun and prefers dry to moist conditions with well-draining soil. Native to regions including Albania, Algeria, Cyprus, Egypt, France, Greece, Italy, Lebanon-Syria, Spain, and Turkey, it has also been introduced to other Mediterranean areas such as Corsica, Sardinia, Sicily, and the Baleares. This plant is notable for its edible roots, which can be harvested for consumption. Asphodel stands about 1 meter tall and is hardy in zones 5-9, making it a versatile addition to gardens or natural landscapes where it can flourish without excessive care.
Quick answers
What is Asphodel?
Asphodel, scientifically known as Asphodelus albus, is a perennial plant that thrives in light to partial sun and prefers dry to moist conditions with well-draining soil.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Asphodel prefers full to partial sun and thrives in well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium. It requires dry to moist conditions and is hardy in zones 5-9, making it suitable for temperate regions. For propagation, divide the plant's roots in spring or fall. As a perennial, asphodel can grow up to 1 meter tall and is known for its edible root.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
5-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Asphodel for the first time
8steps
Start with Asphodel as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A small Asphodel plant or seeds, a trowel, and mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5 for best results.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants or sow seeds directly in the garden, spacing them about 30 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid waterlogging but ensure the soil doesn't dry out completely.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and minimal watering once established. Prune dead leaves as needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune spent flowers to encourage new growth, but avoid cutting back the foliage until it yellows naturally.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common pitfalls.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The asphodel root is edible and can be prepared in various ways. It is often cooked to soften the tough texture before consumption. Roots can also be dried for later use or used fresh in dishes. Skip the raw form due to its bitter taste and fibrous nature.
Other uses:Alcohol
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
23 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
23 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 23 native
Europe6 regions
native (6)AlbaniaCyprusFranceGreeceItalySpain
Asia3 regions
native (3)IraqPalestineTurkey
Africa5 regions
native (5)AlgeriaEgyptLibyaMoroccoTunisia
Broader regions
native:East Aegean Is., Kriti, Lebanon-Syria, Sinai, Yugoslavia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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