Fern Asparagus

Asparagus filicinus

Physical Characteristics

Asparagus filicinus is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.7 m (2ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from July to August. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, India.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Shoots Stem Edible Uses: Young shoots - cooked[158, 177]. Used as a vegetable[272].

Medicinal Uses

Antipyretic Antitussive Diuretic Expectorant Nervine Stomachic Tonic The dried root is antipyretic, antitussive, diuretic, expectorant, stomachic, nervous stimulant and tonic[218].

Known Hazards

None known