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Fern, Foxtail
Asparagus densiflorus 'Meyerii'
Foxtail Fern (Asparagus densiflorus 'Meyeri') is a unique, evergreen perennial grown for its dense, bottlebrush-like plumes that resemble fluffy green foxtails. Though not a true fern, it offers a similar fine texture and performs well in shaded to partially sunny areas of the Texas landscape. Its bold shape and vivid green color make it a standout in containers, shaded borders, mass plantings, and modern tropical designs.
Foxtail Fern thrives in part sun to light shade, ideally with protection from intense afternoon heat. It prefers well-drained soil and is adaptable to a range of pH levels, including slightly alkaline soils. Once established, it is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering during extended dry spells. It tolerates poor soils, is deer-resistant, and rarely suffers from pests or diseases. It grows in a clump-forming habit to about 2 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide. Space plants 18 to 24 inches apart for dense coverage.
In USDA Zones 9–11, Foxtail Fern remains evergreen year-round. In Zone 8, it may suffer frost damage but often regrows from the base in spring. If growing in containers in Central Texas, move them to a protected area during hard freezes. Light pruning in early spring will refresh the plant and encourage fuller growth.
All parts of the plant, especially the berries, are toxic to pets and may cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested.
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Tropical texture |
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Drought-tolerant once established |
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Deer & heat tolerant |
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Height:2-3 Feet
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Spread:3-4 Feet
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Spacing:18-24 in
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USDA Hardiness Zone 9a
Available Sizes:
| Item |
Description |
| FRN-MEY-03 |
#003 FERN, MEYERI (FOXTAIL) |
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Characteristics & Attributes
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Deer Tolerance
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Exposure
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Part Shade to Full Shade |
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Habit
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Soil pH Preference
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Water Needs
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Toxic to Pets
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Seeds |
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Leaves |
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Fruits |
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Branches |
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Roots |
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