Foxtail Asparagus Fern

Foxtail Asparagus Fern has so many monikers and misnomers that you might suspect it of being a secret agent. This semi-evergreen, clumping perennial is not a true fern but a member of the asparagus family, it just resembles a lush cluster of ferns.

Gracefully erect, tapered, tail-like stems are densely covered with bristly, needle-like leaves that are not true leaves, but function like leaves. The appearance of the 2 ft. tall, fluffy plumes give this plant two of its common names, Foxtail Fern and Cat's Tail Asparagus. Other common names include Myer's Asparagus, Basket Asparagus, Emerald Fern, and Asparagus fern.

Asparagus densiflorus 'Meyers' has several variations or misspellings of its cultivar name. It can be labeled as Meyersii, Meyeri, Myersii, or Myers. No matter what name you choose, this clumping perennial is low maintenance and can be used in the landscape in so many ways to add texture, color, movement, and form. Plant in containers, hanging baskets, borders, rock gardens, or in mass for a groundcover. Stems can be used in cutflower arrangements.

The rhizomatous root system with long fibrous roots and pearl-like tubers make this Asparagus fern drought-tolerant and adaptable to a variety of soil types. Winter hardy to 20°F, Foxtail Fern grows well in full coastal sun to light shade inland.

Meyers Asparagus bears tiny white flowers in summer followed by berries that ripen to red in late fall. These ornamental berries attract birds and other wildlife.

Liven up your landscape with Foxtail Asparagus Fern, a useful and attractive plant that offers lush texture.