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Climber Wall ShrubConservatory Greenhouse

Asparagus setaceus

fern asparagus

A bushy tuberous perennial developing twining stems to 2.5m tall, with fine feathery bright green foliage, small white flowers and deep purple berries

Other common names
asparagus fern
feathery asparagus
see morelace fern
Synonyms
Asparagus plumosus
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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer White Green
Autumn Green Purple
Winter Green
Position
  • Partial shade
Aspect

West–facing or South–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Asparagaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Climbing
Potentially harmful
Skin allergen, fruits harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Genus

Asparagus can be evergreen or deciduous perennials or subshrubs, sometimes climbing, with tuberous rootstock. Stems bear both inconspicuous scale-like leaves and larger, leaf-like phylloclades, with small white or pinkish flowers followed by red berries

Name status

Correct

Plant range
South and East Africa

How to grow

Cultivation

Under glass grow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost in bright filtered light sheltered from hot sun. Keep frost free. Water freely from spring to mid-autumn; water more sparingly in winter. Pot on in spring. Provide support

Propagation

Propagate by seed in autumn or early spring, germinate at 16°C (61°F). Divide in early spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
  • Architectural
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to asparagus beetle, slugs and snails

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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