Aciphylla squarrosa aka Speargrass

Aciphylla squarrosa is an evergreen perennial from New Zealand. It belongs to Apiaceae, the carrot family. Its common names include speargrass and bayonet plant. It is native to both North Island and South Island. Its wild range reaches about 41°30′ south. It grows from sea level into mountain areas. Kew places this species in the temperate biome.

The plant keeps its leaves throughout the year. Plants For A Future gives a height of 8.2 feet [2.5 metres]. Its stated spread is 4.9 feet [1.5 metres]. These dimensions make it a large perennial for cultivated beds. The supplied sources give no further leaf or stem details. They also provide no description of the fruit. Its evergreen habit and scented flowers offer interest in garden beds.

Plants For A Future lists flowering from June to July. The flowers have a sweet scent and attract insect pollinators. Male and female flowers usually grow on separate plants. Grow both sexes if you want to collect seed. Female plants can sometimes bear a few male flowers. Even so, the source lists this species as not self-fertile. Seed production therefore depends on having suitable plants together.

Give this species full sun and soil that drains well. It does not grow in shade. Sandy and loamy soils suit it, including gritty mixes. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline conditions. The soil may be dry or moist, but drainage remains important. Reported cold limits differ, from about −10°C to −15°C. Plants For A Future also lists USDA zones 4–8. Sow fresh seed under glass soon after it ripens. Sow stored seed in late winter or early spring. Germination may take a long time. Keep seedlings under glass through their first winter. Plant them out after the expected last frost.

Plants For A Future records several food uses for this species. People cook the roots, which have an aromatic taste. It also lists leaves, shoots, and young stems as edible. The resin serves as chewing gum and has uses in perfumery. The source records no known medicinal uses or hazards. That hazard entry does not establish safety for every use. It lists no weed potential. The supplied evidence names no specific pests or diseases.