Asparagus densiflorus
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Common Name: asparagus fern
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Family: Asparagaceae
Zone: 10 to 11
Native Range: Temperate southern Africa
Garden Location: Kemper Center for Home Gardening Building
Height: 2 to 3 feet
Spread: 3 to 4 feet
Bloom Time: Seasonal bloomer
Bloom Description: White
Sun: Part shade
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Low
Flowers: Fragrant Flowers, Flowers not Showy
Leaves: Evergreen
Fruit: Showy Fruit
Other: Has Thorns
Tolerates: Drought

Culture

Easily grown as a houseplant in St. Louis because it tolerates a wide range of temperatures, does not require high humidity and is easily pruned. Best grown in a well-drained, peaty potting mixture. Best sited in bright indirect light or filtered sun, but avoid direct hot afternoon sun which may cause the leaves to yellow. Water regularly from spring to autumn. Does not require winter dormancy, but appreciates a resting period with reduced watering over the winter months. Regular temperatures in summer and minimum 50 º F in winter. This plant is often taken outside for the growing season and brought back inside in early fall. Pinch back stem tips as needed to maintain plant form and promote dense foliage growth. If plant loses its attractive shape, stems may be cut back close to the soil level to regenerate.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Native to South Africa, asparagus fern is noted for its dense fern-like foliage that forms an arching mound. It is not in fact a fern, however, but is a member of the asparagus family. This ornamental asparagus is a tuberous evergreen perennial that produces numerous arching stems (to 24” long) covered with linear, needle-like green leaves (.75 to 1” long). Plants usually develop weak prickles. Insignificant tiny white flowers in late spring to early summer are fragrant. Flowers are followed by small red berries. Sprengeri Group (emerald fern) and ‘Myersii’ (foxtail fern) are popular varieties available in commerce.

Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Watch for slugs, mites and aphids. Leaf spot and rots may occur.

Garden Uses

Houseplant for bright, sun-filtered areas. Good for hanging baskets. Green stems are valued by florists for adding to flower arrangements.

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