Yellow Asphodel
asphodeline lutea
Also known as: ["Yellow False Asphodel","Yellow Star of Bethlehem"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with tall, erect stems bearing bright yellow star-shaped flowers in early summer.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus: | Asphodeline |
| Botanical Name: | Asphodeline lutea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; every 2–3 years to divide and rejuvenate the plant.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or overcrowded stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate pot for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing in shaded corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; tolerates cold temperatures down to -20°F (-29°C); prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F / 15–24°C) during active growth.
Protect from late spring frosts; ensure good air circulation in hot weather; avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly to prevent excessive foliage growth; apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing before dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or root cuttings; seeds can also be sown in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes carefully.
- Plant cuttings in moist medium.
- Keep in a warm, shaded location.
- Monitor for root development.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is not in active bloom.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with perlite or sand; can also be propagated in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; plants can be established in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife, trowel, rooting hormone (optional), pots or trays.
Quick Tips
Divide mature clumps for best results; use clean tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings consistently moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back flower stalks at the base; divide clumps by digging up and separating rhizomes.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; thin out crowded clumps to improve air circulation.
Tools
Sharp pruners, garden fork, gloves.
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; cut at a 45-degree angle; remove dead or diseased parts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm) in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; replant in fresh, well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; division is often preferred over repotting alone.
Checklist
Choose a larger pot; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water thoroughly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without saturating the soil; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry partially between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf scorch in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in prolonged cold or frost.
Cold Stress
Plants may experience slowed growth or dieback in extreme cold without protection; frost can damage tender new growth.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop in excessive heat; flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; dilute liquid fertilizer; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during active growth; avoid fertilizing in late fall or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest Asphodeline lutea. The saponins in the roots and leaves can lead to digestive discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume parts of Asphodeline lutea. The saponins present in the roots and leaves can cause irritation to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAsphodeline lutea contains saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation when ingested. The plant's roots and leaves are the primary toxic parts, though the toxicity is generally low and not life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Asphodeline lutea grow?
A: It typically reaches 60–90 cm in height.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is it suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, its drought tolerance makes it well-suited for rock gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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