Asphodelus aestivus (Turkish Asphodel)

SunZone: 7b-9, at least 60" tall Origin: S. Europe

Web-Only! (syn: A. microcarpus) This amazing summer-dormant lily ranges from north Africa to Turkey. The evergreen, basal lily-like foliage gives rise in late spring to 3-5' tall stalks, topped with branched spikes of white, star-shaped flowers that open from the bottom upwards over a series of weeks. The flower spikes of Asphodelus aestivus could best be described as a branched liatris with gaura flowers. While we have successfully managed to kill most asphodelus species, A. aestivus has proven amazingly easy and long-lived. I think this has great potential for a cut flower, as it peaks on Mother's Day. Pot size: 24 fl. oz (709.77 ml)