Wild asparagus  (Asparagus prostratus)

Reported threats to this species include the trampling of cliff-top areas, soil erosion, and a widespread decline in grazing and management, leading to a decline in habitat suitability (2) resulting from the subsequent growth of grasses (6). Furthermore, a decrease in the genetic viability of some populations is likely (2). Feeding by the asparagus beetle (Crioceris asparagi) has a significant effect at some sites, and cross-pollination is an important factor in limiting fruit-set in some populations with only a few scattered plants (7).

Wild asparagus is a UK Biodiversity Action Plan priority species; the Species Action Plan includes targets to enhance the population size at all known sites, with the aims of doubling the wild population at sites with less than 10 plants (around 9 sites) by 2008 and creating an additional two populations at former sites. Surveys in 1999-2001 showed that of the 28 populations, single plants occur in 4 sites, 5 sites have fewer than 10 plants, and only three sites have more than 100 plants (5). Most of the areas where wild asparagus occurs are sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) (6). Furthermore, seeds have been collected and plants that have been raised ex-situ can be used as a source for reintroductions (2). The National Trust is the lead partner for the conservation of this species.