Common Asparagus Fern

Common Asparagus Fern Overview

Asparagus setaceus is a bushy, tuberous, perennial vine species which strongly resembles a fern, but is not technically one! Grown for the foliage over the flowers. Flowers are small, delicate and white, followed by purple berries. It resides in the Asparagaceae family and has tough twining stems, capable of growing several metres tall. It is also known by the names Common Asparagus Fern, Lace Fern and Climbing Asparagus, amongst others. Originally from South and East Africa, this plant prefers tropical and warmer temperate regions where it grows happily in rainforests, damp open woodlands and disturbed sites alongside roads. It can happily be grown as a house/indoor plant for its attractive fern-like foliage, however it requires ample humidity, so place in a bathroom or kitchen for optimal growth. Asparagus setaceus has earnt a Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit.