Asparagus setaceus aka Asparagus Fern

Taxonomy

Asparagus setaceus, commonly known as common asparagus fern, asparagus grass, lace fern, climbing asparagus, or ferny asparagus, is a climbing plant in the genus Asparagus. Despite its common name, the plant is not a true fern, but has leaves that resemble one. This tender evergreen perennial has a bushy pyramidal upright habit and is often found in woodland edge settings. It can also be cultivated as a house plant, used in container displays, and incorporated in floristry for its decorative foliage. The thorny stems of this plant bear bristle needle-like leaves that form triangular upright plumes, measuring 16 to 24 inches in length, and exhibiting a dense fern-like feathery quality. Besides its attractive foliage, it has small, insignificant, off-white flowers that bloom in the spring. Although the asparagus fern is not commonly seen as a houseplant, its light and feathery foliage make it visually appealing and suitable for indoor cultivation. In warmer regions, it can be grown outdoors, where it may spread like a creeper and even become invasive. However, caution should be exercised as it is considered an invasive species in Florida, Texas, and Hawaii. Additionally, asparagus fern is toxic to humans and pets. Belonging to the family Liliaceae, it is related to lilies such as tulips, daylilies, amaryllis, and hostas. Despite its fern-like appearance, it is not a true fern. Nonetheless, it possesses air-purifying attributes and can be a delightful addition to any plant collection or garden.

Common names

Asparagus Fern, Common Asparagus, Common Asparagus Fern

How to care for Asparagus Fern

Difficulty

Asparagus Fern presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Asparagus Fern should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Asparagus Fern loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Asparagus Fern prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it's common for Asparagus Fern to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

Asparagus Fern is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

Humidity

The Asparagus Fern does not demand additional humidity levels. Water is mostly absorbed by the roots of plants, rather than their leaves, and the best way to provide humidity to your plants is through watering the soil.

Fertilizer

Once the Asparagus Fern has doubled in size or after a year has passed, it should be moved to a new pot. By replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the vital nutrients, your plant will receive all the sustenance it needs, negating the requirement for fertilizer. It's important to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Asparagus Fern’s native range is Europe and Western Asia.

Flower

Yes, if you provide it with the correct amount of sunlight and water, you can witness your Asparagus Fern blooming.


More info:
Wikipedia