New Zealand Rock Lily, Rengarenga
Arthropodium cirrhatum
Family: Asparagaceae
What it is like
A clump forming, fleshy stemmed plant. It grows 50-75 cm high and spreads 60 cm wide. The leaves are long and narrow. They can be 60 cm long. They grow in grassy tufts. The flowers are in long panicles. The flowers are small and white. The stamens are yellow with two small curly tails. It has fleshy tubers.
There are 12 Arthropodium species. Also put in the family Laxmanniaceae.
Where it is found
It grows near the sea and on rocky cliff faces in New Zealand. It needs well-drained soil. It can grow in the open or in shade and in rich or poor soils. The fleshy leaves are damaged by frost. It suits hardiness zones 9-11.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, New Zealand (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
The roots or tubers are steamed or baked and eaten.
Edible parts
Root, tuber
How it is grown
Plants can be grown by dividing established plants. They can also be grown from seed.