Bog Asphodel is a
native
perennial plant of the UK, typically found growing in bogs, wet heath and wetland, to a mature height of up to 40cm.
Although having some passing similarity to ashodels, Bog Asphodel is not a true asphodel (or a member of the same family). Bog Asphodel commonly grows in full sun, amongst grasses and other plants, on wet acidic ground. It has iris-like, narrow, flat leaves and produces elevated flower spikes which flower from the bottom upwards. The flower petals open flat to reveal six distinctive stamens with 'bottle-brush' filaments and angled orange anthers.
Botanic classification and naming: Bog Asphodel is a member of the Asphodel (Nartheciaceae) family. The genus name
'Narthecium' identifies the plant as a Bog Asphodel and its species name 'ossifragum' means 'bone-breaking plant'.
Concerns: Bog Asphodel is toxic to cattle and sheep.
Benefits: Food plant for caterpillars of the Shoulder-Striped Clover moth.
Benefits to wildlife are also indicated with orange icons in the plant profile bar at the top.
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