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Sprenger's asparagus fern
Scientific Name: Asparagus densiflorus
Family: Liliaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth: Subshrub, Shrub, Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Sprenger's Asparagus Fern (Asparagus aethiopicus)
Sprenger's Asparagus Fern, scientifically known as Asparagus aethiopicus, is a popular ornamental plant often grown in hanging baskets or pots. Despite its common name, it is not a true fern but is related to edible asparagus. It is native to South Africa.
Considerations for Pets
- The plant produces red berries.
- It possesses wiry green stems.
Considerations for Children
- The plant produces red berries.
- It possesses wiry green stems.
Common Names
- Sprenger's Asparagus Fern
- Asparagus Fern
- Foxtail Fern (though Foxtail Ferns are mentioned as a similar but distinct plant)
- Basket Asparagus
- Emerald Feather
- Emerald Fern
- Sprengeri Fern
- Plumosa Fern
- Lace Fern
- Racemose Asparagus
- Shatavari
- Climbing Asparagus Fern
- Regal Fern
- Smilax
- Bushy Asparagus (French: asperge de Sprenger)
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Asparagus aethiopicus L.
- Family: Asparagaceae (formerly Asparagaceae / Hyacinthaceae / Liliaceae)
- Subfamily: Asparagoideae
- Synonyms: Asparagus sprengeri Regel, Protasparagus aethiopicus, Asparagus densiflorus (sometimes misapplied)
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to South Africa, specifically the Cape region.
- Widely used as an ornamental plant.
Ecological Role
- In some regions, such as Florida, Asparagus aethiopicus is listed as a Category I invasive species.
- Its seeds are easily spread, even when grown in pots or hanging baskets.
Morphological Characteristics
- Branching perennial with wiry green stems.
- Trailing stems with feathery foliage.
- The foliage consists of millions of tiny, needle-like leaflets on upward-arching stems.
- Produces delicate, dainty white flowers, followed by red berries.
- In gardens, it can grow up to 2 feet tall with a spread of 3 to 4 feet.
- Possesses aggressively growing rhizomes.
Quirky Facts
- Despite its common name, Sprenger's Asparagus Fern is not a true fern but is related to the edible asparagus.
Further Information
- USDA PLANTS Database: Symbol ASPAET.
- Monrovia plants details and information.