Foxtail Fern
Asparagus densiflorus 'Myersii' (syn. A. aethiopicus 'Myers')
📖 About this plant
Not a true fern but a member of the asparagus family, this striking ornamental plant produces dense, upright plumes of bright green, needle-like stems that resemble fluffy green foxtails. The unique tail-like stems emerge from a central crown and arch outward as they mature. Extremely tough and drought-tolerant once established, it works beautifully in borders, containers, and hanging baskets.
🧑🌾 Care requirements
Partial shade to bright indirect (3-6 hrs)
Every 1-2 weeks
Moderate (40-60%)
15-30°C
Well-draining, organically rich, slightly acidic potting mix with peat and perlite; avoid waterlogging
Balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season; slow-release granular in spring
📋 Plant facts
- 🌍 Origin
- South Africa (Cape Province, Natal); 'Myersii' cultivar selected for ornamental use
- 📏 Max height
- 45-75 cm
- 📐 Spread
- 45-75 cm
- 🕰️ Bloom time
- Non-flowering
- 🎨 Bloom color
- Small, inconspicuous white to pale pink flowers followed by bright red berries
- 🍃 Foliage color
- Bright Green
- ⏳ Lifespan
- Perennial
- 📈 Growth rate
- Moderate
- ☠️ Toxicity
- Mildly toxic to humans and pets — berries can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested; sap may cause skin irritation
- 🌱 Propagation
- Division of the thick tuberous root mass in spring; seed sowing (slow); basal cuttings
🛡️ Health & Safety
Mildly toxic to humans and pets — berries can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested; sap may cause skin irritation
Common issues
- Root rot from overwatering, Mealybugs on stems, Spider mites, Yellow needles from too much direct sun
💡 Care tips
- Not a true fern but a member of the asparagus family,Soft plume-like stems resemble fluffy green foxtails,Produces small white flowers and red berries when mature,Drought-tolerant once established and deer-resistant
