Description

Despite its common name, the Foxtail Fern is not a true fern but an ornamental asparagus (Asparagus densiflorus) prized for its upright, plume-like “foxtails” of fine, bright-green cladodes. Dense, arching sprays create a soft, sculptural look in beds, borders, and containers. In warm weather, it may produce small, white, lightly fragrant flowers followed by glossy red berries that add seasonal interest. Tough yet elegant, it handles heat, brief dry spells once established, and thrives both outdoors in mild climates and indoors with bright, filtered light.

Suggested Uses

Plant Details

Botanical Name

Asparagus densiflorus ‘Myersii’ (commonly sold as Foxtail Fern)

Common Name

Foxtail Fern; Meyer’s Asparagus Fern

Size & Growth

Clumping; typically 2–3 ft tall and 3–4 ft wide with upright, plume-like fronds

Hardiness Zones

USDA 9–11 as a perennial; grow as an annual or overwinter indoors in cooler zones

Foliage Type

Evergreen, fine-textured cladodes (not a true fern)

Bloom Time

Late spring to summer; small white flowers followed by red berries

Growth Rate

Moderate to fast in warm, bright conditions

Light Requirements

Bright indirect light to partial sun; morning sun is ideal, avoid harsh afternoon rays indoors

Attracts Pollinators

Flowers may attract small pollinators like bees; berries can appeal to birds

Indoor Friendly

Yes—thrives in bright rooms with consistent moisture and good drainage

Container Friendly

Excellent in pots and mixed planters; tolerates slight root crowding

Deer Resistant

Generally deer resistant; stems have small thorns that discourage browsing

Pet Warning

Toxic to pets if ingested; sap may irritate skin—use care and keep out of reach

Fragrant

Flowers are lightly fragrant (when present)

Cut Flower

Fronds are popular and long-lasting in floral arrangements

Grows Well With

Bromeliads, coleus, caladium, begonias, impatiens, ferns (true), and shade-tolerant grasses

Care Tips

Planting Instructions

Plant at the same depth as the nursery pot; space 18–24 in apart. For containers, choose a pot with drainage holes and a coarse, well-draining medium.

Soil Moisture

Keep evenly moist but never soggy. Allow the top 1 inch of soil to dry indoors between waterings; outdoors, water deeply during dry spells.

Soil Type

Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil; slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0). Add grit or bark to improve drainage in containers.

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high humidity (40–60% indoors). Benefit from occasional misting or a pebble tray in dry homes.

Pruning Instructions

Remove yellowed or broken fronds at the base. Lightly shape after flowering if needed. Wear gloves to avoid spines.

Winter Care

Protect from frost. In zones below 9, bring containers indoors to bright light before first frost. Reduce watering and keep above 50°F (10°C).

Planting Depth

Set the crown at soil level; cover tuberous roots with 1–2 in of soil. Do not bury the crown deeply.

Fertilization

Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; supplement with diluted liquid feed monthly during active growth. Avoid overfertilizing in winter.

Special Care

Repot every 2–3 years when crowded; divide large clumps if needed. Monitor for invasiveness in frost-free regions. Rotate plant for even, upright growth.