🌿 Foxtail Fern (Asparagus densiflorus)

With its soft, arching plumes that mimic a fox’s tail, the Foxtail Fern is a standout perennial that brings texture and architecture to gardens, beds, and containers. Its bright green, needle-like fronds create a lush, full look while staying easy to care for — making it a perfect choice for adding year-round interest in shaded or partially sunny spaces.

🌸 Flowers & Foliage

• Foliage: Dense, plume-like fronds of needle-like leaves resembling foxtails

• Flowers: Small, white blossoms in summer (occasionally appear)

• Fruit: Red berries sometimes follow flowers, adding seasonal interest

🌱 Plant Details

• Type: Evergreen perennial

• Mature Size: 2–3 ft. tall × 2–3 ft. wide

• Growth Habit: Clumping, mounded, plume-like form

• Exposure: Partial to full shade; tolerates some morning sun

• Soil: Well-draining, fertile soil

• Water Needs: Regular; allow top inch of soil to dry before watering; short drought tolerance once established

• Hardiness: USDA Zones 9–11

• Maintenance: Low; prune discolored fronds for a tidy look

🌟 Why We Love It

• Unique texture — feathery fronds resemble fox tails

• Low maintenance — thrives with minimal pruning and average care

• Shade-loving — perfect for filtered light or understory planting

• Versatile — equally striking in beds, borders, or containers

🌼 Landscape Uses

• Accent plant in shaded borders or beds

• Container plant for patios or shaded porches

• Groundcover or filler in tropical-style gardens

• Pair with broad-leafed plants for textural contrast

⚠️ Plant Notes

• Not frost-hardy; protect with mulch or bring indoors in cooler zones.

• Can spread by rhizomes in the right conditions; give space to mature.

✅ Level To Leaf Tip: Place Foxtail Fern where it gets morning light and afternoon shade — you’ll get the lushest growth and that signature foxtail texture without risk of sun scorch.