Asparagus Fern, Common asparagus fern, Plumosa Fern

Asparagus setaceus

Physical Characteristics

Asparagus setaceus is an evergreen Climber growing to 3 m (9ft 10in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf all year. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required).. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

S. Africa.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Shoots Stem Edible Uses: Young shoots[177]. No more details are given but it is likely that they are cooked and used like asparagus[K].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known