Asparagus verticillatus aka Climbing Asparagus

Asparagus verticillatus, or vining asparagus, is a perennial vine. It belongs to the asparagus family, Asparagaceae. Its native range runs from southeastern Europe to Iran. It also occurs in the Caucasus and Turkmenistan. Wild plants grow along woodland edges and in scrub. They also grow on stony ground and along shores. These habitats span parts of Europe and temperate Asia.

In gardens, this upright vine reaches about 13 feet [4 metres]. Its height suits screens, hedges, and beds with tall plants. It can also stand as a specimen in a border. Chicago Botanic Garden lists it as attractive to birds. White flowers appear before the plant forms red berries. The garden describes flowering from March through October. Its detailed list names March–June and September–October as bloom periods. Male and female flowers grow on separate plants. Bees pollinate the flowers. Grow both sexes if you want to collect seed.

Give the plant sun or part shade and moderate water. Plants For A Future says it prefers moist, well-drained soil. It grows in sand, loam, or clay. Rich sandy loam is its preferred soil. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline conditions. Ordinary good garden soil can also support it. These needs suit planted beds and sunny woodland edges. Chicago Botanic Garden lists USDA hardiness zones 3–8. Plants For A Future reports dormant plants surviving about −20°C. New spring shoots remain at risk from frost. Choose a site sheltered from early morning sun.

Young shoots can be cooked and eaten. Plants For A Future gives edibility two out of five. It lists no known hazards for this species. That does not establish the safety of every plant part. The source records no medicinal uses or other practical uses. It also reports no weed potential. Its stated garden roles include borders, screens, and specimen planting.

Seeds and division offer two ways to raise more plants. Soak seeds in warm water for 12 hours before sowing. Sow in spring, or use ripe seed in early autumn. Start them in a greenhouse. Seeds may sprout in three to six weeks at 25°C. Move seedlings into their own pots once large enough. Keep them in a sunny greenhouse through their first winter. Plant out in late spring or early summer. Divide established plants as growth starts in early spring.