Foxtail fern (Asparagus densiflorus) is a perennial evergreen herb that boasts luscious, fluffy stems of pine needle-like leaves, giving it a plush appearance. A member of the asparagus family, the foxtail fern is actually not a fern at all, as the plant uses seeds to reproduce, not spores. The feathery plant yields small white flowers that produce eye-catching red berries, a wonderful addition to both outside gardens and indoor houseplant collections. Foxtail fern is also used as greenery in flower arrangements, where it stays fresh for two to three weeks.
Though delicate-looking, foxtail fern is quite hardy. It's a laidback plant with easy care requirements. All this fern needs is bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Pair this with a healthy amount of room to grow and the occasional trimming of spent stems, and you will have a beautifully bushy plant. The foxtail fern has tuberous roots, making it drought tolerant. (It is quite forgiving if you forget to water it.) Because of its strong root system, however, it can choke out smaller, more fragile plants in your garden.
When kept in pots, foxtail fern makes a wonderful houseplant and can easily be brought indoors for the winter in colder climates.
Foxtail fern prefers soft light and likes to be planted in areas with filtered shade. A little morning sun is fine, just be sure your plant receives protection in the bright, hot afternoon. Indoors, place foxtail fern in bright, indirect light. Too much strong light will burn the leaves.
Foxtail fern can handle a variety of soil types, as long as it drains well to avoid root rot. It favors slightly acidic soil, but this is not a hard-and-fast requirement.
Foxtail fern has tuberous roots which store water, even when the soil is dry. For this reason, it is easy to overwater this plant. Stick to a schedule of once-a-week waterings giving your fern a good drink, but letting the top three inches of soil dry out completely in between. Should you experience a drought, you may need to water more frequently. Just test the soil with your finger before doing so
Berries are toxic to pets.
