Asphodelaceae

Asphodelus fistulosus

Common Names: Onion weed

Plant Form: Upright tufted herb. Size: Up to 80 cm but usually under 40 cm tall. Stem: Only has flowering stem. Leaves: Hollow, round, 33-50 cm long, grow from the base of the plant. Bluish-green with whitish bloom. Slightly rough to the touch. Lacks onion smell. Flowers: Individual white or pink flowers with a brown or reddish stripe along centre. Compactly and alternately arranged along branches of flowering stem. 1.5-2 cm across with 6 petals. Fruit and Seeds: Wrinkly, globular reddish to sandy brown capsule 4-7 mm across, containing 3-6 brown or black seeds. Habitat: Roadsides, neglected pastures, coastal areas, semi-arid areas, railway lines. Distinguishing Features: Compactly arranged flowering stem and lacks onion or garlic smell compared to other herbs known as Onionweed (Nothoscordum or Allium species).