Asphodeliaceae

Widespread in region.

Damp sites in woodland, grassland, and sclerophyll forest. Requires well-drained soil. Tolerates frost. Sensitive to drought. 

Small tufted perennial herb, 27-75 cm high. Thick roots and succulent strap-like leaves. Dies down to underground tuber after flowering and re-shoots in autumn.

Late Nov to late Dec. Monitor closely as seeds shed 3-14 days after maturity. Mature seeds dark brown.

From seed sown in autumn, or by division in autumn. Transplants readily. Seeds germinate readily in 4-8 weeks after 2-3 month dormancy. Try germinating at cooler temperatures such as 16oC. Can be direct seeded into pots.

Regenerates readily from seed.

Bulbous roots eaten year-round.

Very attractive ornamental for rockeries and containers. Plant in groups for best effect. Apply small quantities of native plant fertiliser to encourage growth. Susceptible to garden snails and slugs.