Water
Water moderately when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot. Reduce watering in cooler months when the plant's growth slows down to prevent overwatering.
Also known as Bridal Asparagus · Bridal-Creeper · Bridal-Veil Creeper
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
African Asparagus Fern (Asparagus asparagoides) is a vigorous, scrambling evergreen perennial with glossy, arching stems and small, white flowers followed by red berries.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light.
75% intensity
Can tolerate some direct morning sun, but avoid intense afternoon sun which can scorch foliage.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
50% intensity
Allow top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Well-draining loam
50% intensity
Average room temperatures.
50% intensity
Thrives between 18-24°C. Protect from frost and extreme cold; temperatures below 10°C can be damaging.
Feed during growing season.
50% intensity
Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks from spring to late summer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains saponins, which can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested and skin irritation upon contact. The berries are particularly toxic.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water moderately when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot. Reduce watering in cooler months when the plant's growth slows down to prevent overwatering.
Prune to maintain shape and remove any yellowing or dead stems. Light pruning can be done at any time. For a fuller appearance, trim back leggy stems to encourage bushier growth from the base.
Propagate by division of established clumps in spring. Carefully separate the rhizomes, ensuring each piece has roots and at least one shoot. Pot separately into well-draining potting mix.
Repot every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot one size larger with good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix, and repot in spring before new growth begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of African Asparagus Fern (Asparagus asparagoides)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Asparagus |
| Species | Asparagus asparagoides |
Similar in genus Asparagus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
