Asphodelus refractus

Family: Xanthorrhoeaceae

What it is like

A herb. The roots form tubers. The flowers are small and white. The fruit are round and hang down.

Also put in the family Asphodelaceae.

Where it is found

It is a Mediterranean climate plant. It grows in the Sahara and in arid places. It can grow in the desert.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Libya, Mauritania, Mediterranean, Morocco, North Africa, Palestine, Sahara, Saudi Arabia, Sinai, Tunisia

How it is used for food

The seeds and aerial parts are processed into flour and used to make cakes or porridge.

It is regarded as a delicacy.

Edible parts

Seeds, leaves

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Berwag, Taziya

Synonyms

Asphodelus pendulinus Coss. & Durieu;