Distinguishing traits. You’ll notice that this plant doesn’t look like a fern, and you’re right — it’s not. Asparagus fern is a member of the asparagus family, a relative of edible asparagus. Foxtail fern's soft, fluffy foliage maintains an upright appearance, forming a 3- to 4-foot evergreen clump. Arms resembling foxtails or rabbit ears radiate from the center, covered in small, chartreuse, needle-like leaves. Insignificant white flowers appear in spring, followed by red berries in fall. Beware of small thorns.
Botanical name: Asparagus densiflorus ‘Myers’ (sometimes sold as A. meyeri or A. myersii)
Common names: Foxtail fern, Myer's asparagus
USDA zones: 9 to 11; hardy to 20 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit (find your zone)
Water requirement: Medium
Light requirement: Sun to partial shade
Mature size: 3- to 4-foot clump
Benefits and tolerances: Tolerates coastal conditions and deer
Seasonal interest: Evergreen
When to plant: Year-round
Caution: Foxtail fern is toxic to pets if ingested.
Foxtail fern's soft, fluffy foliage maintains an upright appearance, forming a 3- to 4-foot evergreen clump. Arms resembling foxtails or rabbit ears radiate from the center, covered in small, chartreuse, needle-like leaves.
Foxtail fern's soft, fluffy foliage maintains an upright appearance, forming a 3- to 4-foot evergreen clump. Arms resembling foxtails or rabbit ears radiate from the center, covered in small, chartreuse, needle-like leaves.