Asparagus Densiflorus 'Myersii'

Foxtail Fern / Foxtail Asparagus / Meyers Fern

Botanical Name: Asparagus densiflorus ‘Myersii’
Family: Asparagaceae (Asparagoideae)
Origin: South Africa
Plant Type: Evergreen clump-forming perennial (grass & strappy)

Overview

A tough, architectural plant forming dense “foxtail” plumes of fine, bright-green cladodes (leaf-like needles). Great for pots, borders, poolside and coastal gardens in SA. Drought-tolerant once established and neat year-round; summer brings small, lightly fragrant white flowers followed by red berries.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 0.6–0.9 m H × 0.6–1.0 m W (upright plumes 45–60 cm long)
• Growth Rate: 20-40 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Soft-looking, bright to mid-green “foxtail” fronds; tidy clumps
• Flowers: Small white, lightly fragrant (mainly summer); red berries may follow
• Seasonal Interest: Evergreen structure year-round; summer flowers/berries
• Wildlife Value: Flowers visited by pollinating insects; berries may interest birds
• Tolerance: Drought-, heat- and wind-tolerant; second-line coastal OK; light frost (protect from hard frost)
• Planting Density: Mass planting: 3–5 plants/m² (≈ 45–60 cm centres); Border/edging: 2–3 per metre (≈ 40–50 cm centres); Containers: 30–40 cm pots (upsize as clumps thicken)
• Pet Friendly: No — toxic to pets if eaten (saponins in berries/leaves can cause GI upset); wear gloves—tiny spines at stem bases

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun to part shade (part shade keeps foliage lush)
• Soil: Well-drained sandy/loam; enrich with organic matter
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 2–3 weeks in summer (weekly in heatwaves); minimal in winter
• Maintenance: Remove old/tatty plumes at base; light feed in spring; divide tuberous clumps every few years if crowded
• Lifespan: 10+ years with basic care
• Climate Zones: Temperate & Mediterranean SA, incl. sheltered coastal
• Soil pH: Neutral (tolerates slightly acidic–slightly alkaline)

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Container feature for entries/patios
• Mass plant for bold texture in water-wise beds
• Poolside/coastal accent with succulents and grasses (not a privacy hedge)

Why You Will Love It

Striking foxtail texture, water-wise toughness and minimal mess—an easy, evergreen statement plant for modern SA gardens