Asparagus Setaceous “Asparagus Fern”

The Asparagus Fern, or Asparagus setaceous, is one of 215 species of asparagus that range from small ground cover plants to sizeable shrubs, and includes the culinary, or garden asparagus that is a popular vegetable.

A distinguishing feature of all Asparagus is the complete lack of leaves – these are reduced to tiny scales. The feathery foliage, that gives the plant is fern-like appearance (and common name), are called phylloclades and they are actually flattened branches that carry out the same function.

Asparagus setaceous is a fine example of an ornamental asparagus and has delicate foliage held almost horizontally from stiff, dark green stems. Under the right conditions, small white flowers are produced which may develop into deep purple berries (which are toxic).

The specific name, setaceous, means hairy, or bristly and is a good example of the scientific name being very descriptive.

Asparagus species are not ferns at all, and are actually most closely related to plants such as Dracaena and Agave.
All our potted plants come in compostable coir pots.