Asparagus asparagoides
smilax asparagus
A scrambling, herbaceous, twining climber with stems reaching up to 3m, spreading by seed and tubers. Glossy green, sometimes heart shaped leaves, with white flowers in spring. Considered invasive in Australia and parts of North America.
Other common names
florists' smilaxbaby smilax
see moreBoston smilax
florist's asparagus
smilax
wreath lily
Synonyms
Asparagus medeoloidesBuy this plant
Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H3Botanical details
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Climbing
- Potentially harmful
- Skin allergen, fruits harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
Asparagus can be evergreen or deciduous perennials or subshrubs, sometimes climbing, with tuberous rootstock. Stems bear both inconspicuous scale-like leaves and larger, leaf-like phylloclades, with small white or pinkish flowers followed by red berries
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in well-drained soil as tender perennial or conservatory plant.
Propagation
Propagate by seed. Divide tubers when dormant.
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
Cut back stems that die down after flowering
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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