Asparagus fern (Asparagus africanus)
Care, watering, light and tips for Asparagus fern on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asparagaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Indirect light
- Temperature: 10–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Asparagus fern
Asparagus africanus, known as Plymsparris or African Asparagus, is a perennial shrub with fine, feathery foliage that gives it a delicate and ethereal appearance. Its woody, branched stems can reach several meters in height, forming a dense and attractive mass. It's an excellent choice for warm climate gardens, as a background plant in beds, or even as an indoor plant if given enough space and light.
Native range
Tropical and Southern Africa
Care tips
It prefers bright indirect light or partial shade, avoiding direct sun exposure which can scorch its delicate foliage. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings; it is susceptible to waterlogging. Use a well-draining substrate rich in organic matter. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Asparagus fern
- Warning signs
- Yellowing and dropping leaves, brown tips, dry or brittle stems. May indicate lack of water or humidity.
- First aid
- Check soil moisture. If dry, water thoroughly. Increase humidity with a spray. Move to indirect light.
- What kills it
- Prolonged dryness, both in soil and air. Direct sun also burns it. Does not tolerate waterlogging.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, it often recovers well if conditions are corrected. Prune very dry parts, it will regrow.