Asphodeline

( ass - FOH - del - ine )

At-A-Glance Information

Commonly called King's Spear, this flowering perennial needs full sun or partial shade and regular water. Native to the Mediterranean, Asphodeline forms a low clump of blue-green to dark green grass-like leaves. In springtime, unbranched stems produce clusters of fragrant yellow or white flowers between reddish-brown bracts.

Asphodeline species and varietals

The genus Asphodeline is included in the plant family Asphodelaceae, and includes 17 species. These plants grow best in zones 3b-24 (to find your zone, click here: Zone Map).

Asphodeline lutea (King's Spear, Yellow Asphodel)
This plant is native to Europe and North Africa, and is commonly grown as an ornamental in gardens. It grows best in zones 3b-24 and produces yellow fragrant flowers in spring.

Asphodeline tenuior (Thin Asphodeline)
This species is native to the Caucasus, Turkey, Russia, and Iran and produces white flowers. It is considered threatened in its native range.

Caring for Asphodeline

Need well-draining soil.

Propagation

Problems and Pests

Gallery

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Videos

A video all about growing camellias successfully
Propagating camellias

Resources

The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 175, Asphodeline lutea
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