About Asphodelus albus Mill.
Asphodelus albus Mill., commonly known as white asphodel, grows to a height of 50–120 centimetres (20–47 in). Its smooth plain stem is supported by fleshy, thickened rhizomes (modified roots). Leaves grow from the base of the stem; they are gutter-shaped, glaucous (covered in a waxy coating), around 20–22 millimetres (0.79–0.87 in) wide and 50–70 centimetres (20–28 in) long. The hermaphroditic flowers are white, funnel-shaped, 4 centimetres (1.6 in) in diameter, and have six elongated petals. Flowering occurs from April through June. The egg-shaped seed capsules are yellow-green, and usually measure 8–10 millimetres (0.31–0.39 in) in length. This species is native to the Mediterranean region. It is commonly found in meadows and heath habitats in northern Portugal, central Spain, southwest France, and from the southern Alps across to the western Balkans, at altitudes up to 2,000 metres (6,600 ft). It also grows in Africa, primarily in Libyan territory. White asphodel prefers soils with a high lime content.
