Asparagus densiflorus var. meyeri

Asparagus densiflorus meyeri is an ornamental plant from the asparagus family, but often mistaken for a fern because of its appearance. It develops evergreen foliage of a very fresh apple-green colour, darkening slightly when ripe, organised in bushy clusters and composed of feathery cone-shaped leaves. These leaves are what gives it its other name of Foxtail Fern, just as its airy appearance evokes a fern. It is related to asparagus, although it is not edible. Not very hardy, it can be grown as an outdoor plant in frost-free areas, or as an indoor plant.

Asparagus densiflorus meyeri belongs to the Asparagaceae family. Originally growing in coastal dunes, rocky outcrops, or wooded areas, it is found from the southeastern Cape in South Africa to southern Mozambique. In the garden, the plant forms a tuft 40 to 50 cm (16 to 20 in) tall and spreads in the same way. It grows in USDA zones 9b and 10. Frost causes the above-ground parts to wither, but the stump can withstand temperatures down to -4 °C (24.8 °F). This plant grows in dense cylindrical or conical clusters. The long lance-shaped leaves stand upright and twist, giving this plant great ornamental value. The velvety and soft foliage forms a kind of open bouquet. The plant reproduces by seeds. In spring or summer, it can bloom in small clusters of insignificant white flowers before red berries appear on tiny stems. With vigorous growth in warm and tropical climates, where its tuberous roots grow rapidly, this "asparagus" remains much more modest in size when grown in pots in our climate.

Plant it in a frost-free area or in a pot to bring it indoors during winter. In the ground, give it morning sun and shade for the rest of the day in a humus-rich, well-draining, constantly moist to wet soil. As an indoor plant, grow it without direct sunlight, but with bright light, at temperatures between 18 and 24 °C (64.4 and 75.2 °F). Its soft green feathery foliage is beautifully complemented by light annuals such as cosmos or love-in-a-mist. In a hanging basket, its slightly trailing, light habit is attractive all year round. Surround it with a Staghorn Fern or a Medinilla magnifica, another beautiful indoor plant with an exotic look.