Common Asphodel
Asphodelus aestivus
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
48 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
8, 9
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Mediterranean region
Toxicity
All parts are toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Asphodelus aestivus is a perennial herbaceous plant with a basal rosette of long, strap-like leaves. In spring, it sends up a tall, leafless, branching stem bearing a dense raceme of white to pale pink, star-shaped flowers. This species is notable for its drought tolerance and ability to grow well in rocky or poor soils, making it a resilient choice for low-maintenance gardens.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
- Place in full sun for optimal flowering.
- Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring.
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent bulb rot during wet winters.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water sparingly during dormancy 🌱
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring
- Remove spent flowers to encourage new growth
Don't
- Overwater in winter ❌
- Use heavy clay soil without amendments ❌
- Neglect mulching in hot climates ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Common Asphodel questions
What zones can Common Asphodel grow in?
Common Asphodel is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Common Asphodel deer resistant?
Yes — Common Asphodel is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Common Asphodel bloom?
Common Asphodel typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Common Asphodel need full sun?
Common Asphodel does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Common Asphodel drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Common Asphodel handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Grow Common Asphodel with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
