Wild Asparagus
Asparagus aethiopicus
Also known as
Asparagus Fern, Sprenger's Asparagus Fern, Sprenger's-Fern, Emerald-Feather
Asparagus setaceus Leaves 2760px by Ram-Man (CC-BY-SA-3.0)
Full Sun
Easy care
Moderate watering
Tender
H5-H1c
RHS hardiness
-15°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
60cm | Max | 1m |
30cm | Min | 30cm |
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
This plant has no fragrance
More images of Wild Asparagus
Wild Asparagus Overview
Asparagus aethiopicus is a hardy evergreen trailing groundcover that grows branches up to 1m long. Not a true fern, but often discribed as one. It can be utilised in both full sun or shade in large containers or hanging baskets. Variety 'Cwebe' can only be grown in semi-shade. Flowers are often small white or pink and sweetly scented, flowering erratically once every 2-3 years. They have bright red berries that attract birds and have a low toxicity if consumed by humans. Fairly drought tolerant once established and tolerate different soil types although it prefers loamy soil. Used in cut flower arrangements and tubers are traditionally used as a supplementary food source in summer. Versatile evergreen garden plant or pot plant.
Common problems with Wild Asparagus
Little pests or diseases.
Wild Asparagus Companion Plants
Clivias sp., Agapanthus sp.
How to harvest Wild Asparagus
Harvest fruits for propagation after it has flowered.
How to propagate Wild Asparagus
Seed
Sow seeds in Spring one and a half times deeper than the size of the seed. Sow in a sandy soil mix and keep moist.
Division
Divide the thick tubersroots and branches with enough of each in the new clumb.
Tubers
The fleshy roots form tubers that stores enough reserves for a new plant - use them to quickly multiply, but give help in keeping moist and a good nutrient-rich soil.
Special features of Wild Asparagus
Attracts birds
Drought resistant
Underground roots store water in thick tubers.
Pot plant
Excellent hanging basket plants where the green foilage will tumble over the sides.
Attractive flowers
Indoor plant
Other uses of Wild Asparagus
Versatile evergreen garden plant or pot plant. Roots can be eaten.