Asparagus densiflorus is part of the Asparagaceae family and its native range is Mozambique (Inhaca Islands) to S. Africa. It is a perennial and grows primarily in the subtropical biome.
This plant is noted for its dense, fern-like foliage although it isn’t a fern but a member of the asparagus family. In its’ native environment it grows primarily in rocky, open woods and savanna thickets. The semi-stiff stems are arched and covered in linear needle-like cladodes (flattened stems with leaf function), they also contain small thorns so be mindful when touching this plant.
You can pinch back stem tips to promote dense foliage growth, you can also cut stems back close to the soil to regenerate.
Genus name comes from the Greek asparagos for the cultivated asparagus. The specific epithet refers to how the flowers are arranged in a dense fashion along the stem.
Pot: ø 17cm.
Foliage: Approximately 25cm.
Light: Bright indirect light, meaning the plant sees the sun for 0-4 hours per day - this could be through trees or a translucent curtain, it’s important for the plant to see the sky in order to thrive. Asparagus densiflorus tend to yellow if they are receiving too much light and foliage will turn a lighter green if they aren’t receiving ample light.
Water: Asparagus densiflorus prefer evenly moist soil, providing that the plant is receiving adequate light, water when the top inch of mix has dried out. Before watering, aerate the potting mix with a few pokes of a skewer or blunt stick, pour water slowly over the top and allow the water to pass through the drainage holes. It is also noted that this plant can be fairly drought tolerant.
Potting mix: A rich, well draining mix composed of coco coir, perlite or vermiculite and worm castings.
Fertilising: Feed your plant each to every other watering during the growing season or when you observe active growth. You can dilute fertiliser to half the recommended amount but never add more.
Temperature: 18-24°C.
Humidity: This plant would prefer higher humidity. You can increase humidity by placing the plant on a watered pebble tray or using a humidifier.
Asparagus densiflorus is toxic, keep out of reach of pets and children.