Asparagus Fern – Desert Horizon Nursery

Asparagus Fern

Asparagus aethiopicus
Categories:
Perennials  ·  
Perennials
Light
Morning sun / afternoon shade
Water
Moderate water; water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil dry. Check containers frequently during Phoenix summers. Reduce watering in winter and avoid soggy soil.
Size
2-3 ft tall × 3-4 ft wide
Habit
Perennial clump – arching
Toxicity
Toxic if Ingested; Sap Irritant
Description
A fernlike perennial with fine, needlelike foliage and long, arching stems. This asparagus relative is not a true fern and grows best in sheltered, shaded locations in Phoenix.
Bloom Time
Spring to summer
Deciduous / Evergreen
Semi-evergreen
Special Features
Drought Tolerant
Growth Rate
Fast
Growth Habit
Perennial clump – arching
Mature Size
2-3 ft tall × 3-4 ft wide
Flower Color
White
Foliage Color
Bright green
Landscape Use
Border / Bed, Container / Patio, Groundcover
Garden Style
Container / Patio
Soil
Amended / Rich, Well-Drained
Companion Plants
Clivia, Irrigated locations, Liriope, Shade-grown coleus
Toxic if Ingested; Sap Irritant
Toxic to pets if ingested (berries cause GI upset); sap may irritate skin
Care Instructions

Light: Bright filtered light or partial shade; gentle morning sun is acceptable. Protect from intense afternoon sun and reflected desert heat.

Water: Moderate water; water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil dry. Check containers frequently during Phoenix summers. Reduce watering in winter and avoid soggy soil.

Soil: Well-drained soil enriched with compost; use a freely draining potting mix in containers. Avoid heavy, poorly drained soil.

Mature size: Typically 1–2 feet tall and 3–4 feet wide; trailing stems may extend farther.

Bloom: Small flowers appear mainly from spring through summer, sometimes followed by red berries.

Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen in frost-free conditions; freezing temperatures can damage or kill back foliage.

Growth rate: Moderate to fast with adequate warmth, moisture, and nutrition.