A soft, feathery South African plant that resembles a fern but is actually a relative of garden asparagus, popular as a houseplant and floral filler.
Description
Despite the common name, asparagus fern is not a true fern. Its lacy green foliage consists of needle-like cladodes arranged on wiry, sometimes spiny stems.
Cultivation
It prefers bright indirect light, evenly moist soil, and warm humid conditions. Dry air causes the delicate foliage to drop, leaving bare prickly stems.
Uses
Florists use the airy sprays as filler in bouquets. Gardeners grow it as a houseplant or, in mild climates, as a groundcover, though it can become invasive in some regions.