Sprenger's asparagus fern - Asparagus aethiopicus (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images)

Sprenger's asparagus fern

Also known as: Asparagus fern, African asparagus

Sprenger's asparagus fern (Asparagus aethiopicus) is a fern species native to South Africa. Despite its common name, this plant is not a true fern by taxonomy. Sprenger's asparagus fern is generally considered to be an invasive species. The common name was established by Carl Ludwig Sprenger who popularized cultivating sprenger's asparagus fern as an ornamental plant.

Scientific classification

Species

Sprenger's asparagus fern (Asparagus aethiopicus)

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall, Winter

Harvest Time

2 m to 3 m

Plant Height

30 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

3 mm to 5 mm

Flower Size

Red, Green

Fruit Color

White, Yellow, Pink, Green

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Sprenger's asparagus fern

Distribution of Sprenger's asparagus fern

Distribution Map

Sprenger's asparagus fern is native to southern Africa. It is found in sub-tropical woodland, wetlands, and sand dunes. It has been introduced to the Mediterranean, Australia, and North & South America as a garden ornamental. It is an environmental weed in Australia.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Rocky shale slopes, coastal scrub, dry areas

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Sprenger's asparagus fern is a delightful and unusual choice as a houseplant, loved for its finely textured foliage. In warmer climates, gardeners can use it outdoors as a ground cover plant that rambles and spreads very effectively. It is a great addition to a foliage garden, but it also looks good in pots and raised beds, where it can drape over the edge of the container. Caladiums and impatients make good, color-contrasting companions.

Symbolism

Sincerity and allure, luck, riches, protection and rainmaking

Name Story

Sprenger's asparagus fern: The attribution "Sprenger's Asparagus" refers to Carl Ludwig Sprenger who made it popular in Europe as an ornamental plant. The common name for this plant is Sprenger's asparagus fern but it is unrelated to the true ferms.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Toxicity

Sprenger's asparagus fern is toxic to cats and dogs, mainly through ingestion of its fruit, causing symptoms like vomiting and abdominal pain. Immediate veterinary care is essential if poisoning is suspected.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Sprenger's asparagus fern

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Sprenger's asparagus fern thrives in warm, humid environments, efficiently absorbing moisture. It prefers consistent soil moisture and benefits from weekly watering. Often grown indoors, it requires ambient humidity to mimic tropical conditions. As an evergreen, careful watering during the growing season promotes vibrant growth.

Fertilize: Sprenger's asparagus fern benefits from monthly high nitrogen fertilizer during spring and summer, reducing to quarterly in fall and stopping in winter. Apply per product guidelines to prevent root damage. Wear gloves and water after application to avoid fertilizer burn, adjusting amounts based on growth stage and conditions.

Pruning: Sprenger's asparagus fern features cascading foliage and thorny stems, benefiting from regular pruning in early spring to boost growth. Key techniques involve removing dead stems and trimming overgrown areas. Clean, sharp shears promote health and aesthetics, preventing legginess and enhancing density.

Propagation: The most effective propagation method for sprenger's asparagus fern involves using its tubers in spring. This easy-to-propagate plant shows successful growth through new shoots. Maintain well-draining soil and proper moisture levels for optimal results.

Repotting: Sprenger's asparagus fern requires repotting every 2-3 years, preferably in spring. Use a larger pot to accommodate growth and ensure well-draining soil. Avoid watering for a week post-repotting to prevent root rot and facilitate recovery.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free