Types of Asparagus Fern

Asparagus ferns aren't ferns, nor do they produce a vegetable, though they are related to the plant that does. A perennial with its needle-like leaves, the asparagus fern is also related to the lily. The plant can be grown in containers or as ground cover.

Asparagus densiflorus

Asparagus densiflorus is commonly known as Sprenger's asparagus fern. With mounded, fluffy green fronds growing 2 to 3 feet long, the U.S. Department of Agricultural (USDA) calls the plant a "subshrub."

Asparagus plumosus

Asparagus plumosus is a twining vine that has feathery-leaved stems that look to many like ferns. Its appearance lends itself to floral arrangements.

Asparagus cochinchinensis

Asparagus cochinchinensis grows in fluffy twining clumps. Plants for a Future gives the plant a 3 out of 5 rating in both its edibility and medicinal use. This plant is used in traditional Chinese medicine.

Asparagus denudatus

The name of Asparagus denudatus might clue you in to its appearance---it has few needles, instead growing as a maze of attractive stems.

Asparagus verticilliatus

Asparagus verticilliatus is a climber that stretches upward to about 15 feet, then hangs down in weeping aspect. It produces scented flowers in spring and red berries in summer.

Asparagus setaceus

Asparagus setaceus is the common asparagus fern, recognizable to many as an indoor potted plant. It has dark green twining foliage and produces white flowers.

References

• USDA Plant Guide-Asparagus Fern
• Horticulture Update-Texas AgriLife Extension Service; Asparagus Ferns (Asparagus Species); Cynthia W. Mueller; Ocotber 2008
• Plants for a Future:Edible, Medicinal and Useful Plants for a Healthier World