ASPHODELINE (Asphodel'ine)

DESCRIPTION: These perennials are natives of southern Europe. They form clumps of slender, linear leaves up to a foot long. They are silvery-green to gray green. In late spring or summer, they produce compact spikes of small, fragrant, star-shaped, flowers. They may have single or double blooms and the colors may be yellow, yellow striped with green and white striped with green. These plants grow up to 3 feet in height with a width of 18 inches.

POTTING: Jacob's Rods (one of their common names) plants can be planted in regular, well-drained garden soil, in a sunny, sheltered spot. In cool climates, winter protection should be supplied.

PROPAGATION: These plants can be increased by dividing them into rooted pieces in the spring. Take care, however, the soft roots can easily be damaged. Seeds may also be sown in sandy soil, in the spring or fall.

VARIETIES: A. lutea (King's spear, Jacob's-rod, or Yellow Asphodel); A. liburnica; A. taurica; A. tenuior.

Go see DICTIONARY OF BOTANICAL NAMES.

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