Andalucia Life Fauna and Flora, Flowers of Andalucia Southern Spain

April 2005, White Asphodel, Asphodelus albus

The white asphodel is another plant that seed purveyors have tried to promote in the UK as a garden perennial but even they admit it does not do well. However in the countries bordering the northern Mediterranean, especially Spain, this plant is native, grows wild and is very common.

It is easy to see its attraction as a garden plant. It stands upright with narrow, grey - green leaves and bears white star shaped flowers on long tall spikes very early in the year. These are followed by golden coloured berries (not edible) the size of small tomatoes. It favours stony ground.

This specimen was seen above Benalmádena in early March 2005.