Jessie Keith
Family
Liliaceae
Botanical Name
Asparagus densiflorus 'Sprengeri'
Plant Common Name
Asparagus Fern, Sprenger's Asparagus Fern
General Description
Sprenger's asparagus fern is a tuberous perennial native to South Africa with arching, fern-like, green leaves that are small, short and narrow. Small, waxy white flowers along the green stems produce bright red berries in summer. The long stems have prickly thorns on them.
Plant Sprenger's asparagus fern in partial sun to partial shade exposures in fertile, moist, well drained garden soil. With protection from frost, it may be planted in borders or as a billowy groundcover. The pendulous habit is ideal for hanging baskets or other containers.
The copious production of the seeded red fruits causes this cultivar to be considered a noxious weed or fully invasive in many subtropical regions, including Florida.
Characteristics
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USDA Hardiness Zone
9 - 15
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Sunset Zone
H1, H2, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
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Plant Type
Tender Perennial
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Height
1'-6' / 0.3m - 1.8m (3)
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Width
2'-3' / 0.6m - 0.9m
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Native To
South Africa
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
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Soil type
Loam, Sand
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Tolerances
Drought, Soil Compaction
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Growth Rate
Fast
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Water Requirements
Average Water
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Habit
Thicket/Colonizing
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Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Insignificant
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Flower Color
White
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Fruit Color
Red, Orange Red
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Foliage Color (Spring)
Lime Green
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Foliage Color (Summer)
Lime Green
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Foliage Color (Fall)
Lime Green
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Foliage Color (Winter)
Lime Green
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Repeat Bloomer
Yes
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Showy Fruit
Yes
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Showy Foliage
Yes
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Foliage Texture
Fine
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Foliage Sheen
Glossy
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Evergreen
Yes
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Showy Bark
No
Special Characteristics
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Usage
Bedding Plant, Container, Groundcover, Hanging Basket, Houseplant, Tropical
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Sharp or Has Thorns
Yes
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Invasive
Yes
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Attracts
Birds
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Self-Sowing
Yes
