Sandveld asparagus
Asparagus nelsii
Family: Asparagaceae
What it is like
A herb or small spreading shrub. It keeps growing from year to year but loses its leaves. The stems are spiny. It grows 1 m high. The flattened leaf like stems are narrow and in groups or 4-9. They are greyish-green and 25 mm long. The flowers are white or pale green. The fruit is a one-seeded red berry.
Where it is found
It is a subtropical plant. It grows on soil from limestone material. It grows in well-drained sandy or stony soils. It can grow in arid places.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Southern Africa
How it is used for food
The plant is eaten as a vegetable.
Edible parts
Fruit, vegetable
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Orukumbambura