Asparagus rubicundus

Asparagus rubicundus is an erect, spiny shrub growing multiple stems from fibrous roots. It reaches 1,5 m, especially when positioned in partial shade. The common name of dark-stemmed asparagus is appropriate.

There are about ten thread-like false leaves growing in a tuft at every stem node. These false leaves or cladodes become up to 2 cm long, slightly broader towards their tips.

The species distribution is from Namaqualand in the Northern Cape through the Western Cape to the Eastern Cape as far as Uitenhage.

The habitat is sandy and granite slopes receiving variable summer or winter rain. The species is not considered to be threatened in its habitat early in the twenty first century (Manning, 2007; Bean and Johns, 2005; iSpot; http://redlist.sanbi.org).