Asparagaceae

Asparagus aethiopicus

Common Names: Ground asparagus

Plant Form: Spreading herb. Size: Up to 2 m long. Stem: Green to brown, rounded with ridges, spines 5-10 mm long. Leaves: Slender pointed flattened stems (cladodes) function as leaves, 15-25 mm long, and in clusters of 1-5. Flowers: White to pale pink about 5 mm diameter in clusters of 4-8. Fruit and Seeds: Berry, green to glossy red, 5-8 mm wide, with either 1 or few seeds. Habitat: Urban fringes, degraded land to native vegetation, in partial or full shade. Distinguishing Features: Most likely to be confused with Asparagus fern (Asparagus scandens) but can be distinguished by having grouped flowers on a short stem, and longer and wider cladodes. Impacts: Forms dense monocultures excluding native species, reduces soil moisture.

Leaves and berries

Flowers

Forms dense cover over ground

Leaves small and surround stems