White Colicroot

(Aletris spicata)

White Colicroot (Aletris spicata)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Aletris spicata image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Aletris spicata, commonly known as White Colicroot, is a deciduous perennial herb native to grasslands, meadows, and light woodlands in East Asia and Southeast Asia. It typically grows to a height of 2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters) and a width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters). The plant features narrow, lance-shaped leaves and erect, unbranched stems topped with dense spikes of small, tubular white flowers that bloom in the summer and are moderately showy. The flowers are followed by capsule fruits containing numerous seeds.

White Colicroot is valued for its vertical accent in garden designs and its ability to attract pollinators. It is used in borders, wildflower gardens, and as a specimen in naturalistic plantings. It is relatively low-maintenance, requiring medium water and thriving in a range of soil types, provided they have good drainage. It prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade. While generally pest-free, it can be susceptible to root rot in overly wet conditions. There are no widely known popular cultivars of this species in the horticultural trade. Gardeners should be aware that Aletris spicata is not commonly available in nurseries and may need to be grown from seed or sourced from specialty growers.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-4 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: White, Cream
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to grasslands, meadows, and light woodlands in East Asia and Southeast Asia

Other Names

Common Names: 쥐꼬리풀

Scientific Names: , Aletris spicata, Aletris spicata subsp. microantha, Aletris spicata var. microantha, Hypoxis farinosa, Hypoxis spicata,

GBIF Accepted Name: Aletris spicata (Thunb.) Franch.