Soft, sculptural, and full of texture, Asparagus densiflorus ‘Meyeri’ is loved for its dense, upright plumes that resemble fluffy fox tails. Despite its delicate appearance, this plant is surprisingly hardy and brings a fresh, feathery feel to shelves, windowsills, or plant displays. It’s not a true fern, but it shares that light, airy look while being a little more forgiving in the home.
Scientific Name
Asparagus densiflorus ‘Meyeri’ (densely flowered asparagus, cultivar ‘Meyeri’)
Synonyms
Often incorrectly sold as Asparagus meyeri or Asparagus densiflorus ‘Myersii’
Common Name
Foxtail Fern, Asparagus Fern
Origin
Derived from species native to southern Africa
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some gentle morning or evening sun, but avoid harsh midday sun which can scorch the foliage
Water
Keep the soil lightly moist but not soggy. Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings. Do not let it dry out completely, as this can cause the foliage to yellow and drop
Humidity
Enjoys moderate humidity. It will cope in average household conditions but will benefit from occasional misting or being placed near a pebble tray
Soil
Use a well-draining houseplant compost. Adding a little grit or perlite will help prevent the soil from becoming too heavy
Food
Feed every 2–4 weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertiliser. Reduce feeding in autumn and winter
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 16–26°C. Avoid temperatures below 10°C and keep away from cold drafts
Pet-safe
Toxic if ingested, so keep out of reach of pets and children
Sprouts Top Tips
If it starts to look a bit tired or sparse, don’t be afraid to give it a trim. Cutting back older stems encourages fresh, bushy new growth from the base.
