Also known as Asphodel · Hollow-Leaved Asphodel · Hollow-Stem Asphodel
Onion-Leafed Asphodel (Asphodelus fistulosus) is a perennial herb with hollow, fistulous leaves and star-shaped white to pinkish flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering.
Allow soil to dry between waterings
25% intensity
Reduce watering during summer dormancy and winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate to warm
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 8-11. Protect from hard freezes.
Low feeder
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring with a balanced fertilizer if desired.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains saponins and glycosides, which can cause gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water moderately during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in summer dormancy and overwinter.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, especially in containers. Overwatering is the most common cause of issues.
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming and maintain a tidy appearance. Cut back any dead or damaged foliage as needed. Pruning is minimal; the plant generally maintains a good natural form.
Trim foliage in late autumn or early spring.
Propagate by division of clumps in early spring or autumn. Seeds can also be sown in autumn or early spring. Germination may be erratic. Seedlings require patience and may take a few years to reach flowering size.
Use well-draining soil.
Repot container-grown plants every 2-3 years in early spring before new growth begins. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend, with added grit.
Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current root ball.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Onion-Leafed Asphodel (Asphodelus fistulosus)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus | Asphodelus |
| Species | Asphodelus fistulosus |
Similar in genus Asphodelus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
