Narthecium ossifragum

RHS Plant Profile
bog asphodel

Other common names

Lancashire asphodel, maidenhair, yellow grass, llafn y bladur

Bogs Herbaceous Perennial

A perennial wildflower, spreading through rhizomes, and common in suitable habitats in the north and west of Britain, and in Ireland. The leaves form a flattened tuft, like a miniature iris, with a spike of rich yellow, star-shaped flowers in summer - a good source of pollen for bees. Red seed capsules follow, and the whole plant turns dark orange in autumn

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Loam

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years

Growing Conditions

Loam
Moisture
Poorly–drained
pH
Acid

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Nartheciaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Tufted
Genus
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Europe

How to Grow

Cultivation

Naturally found in acid bogs, moorlands and other wet, peaty places. Needs humus-rich, permanently wet, nutrient-poor, acid soil in a sunny position

Propagation

Propagate by seed or by division

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free