March's Plant of the Month -

Asparagus virgatus

-broom fern

by Adrienne Roethling,

Director of Curation and Mission Delivery

Asparagus virgatus is known as the broom fern or asparagus fern.  It is neither a fern nor an edible asparagus.  So, why do we grow it? It has wonderful ornamental characteristics including interesting texture, stays almost completely evergreen and is an endless supply of greenery for bouquets.

 

You may have seen, grown or heard of Asparagus, more commonly, the edible kind.  The genus comprises of over 300 species mostly native to South Africa. Asparagus virgatus has been growing on the Patio Terrace since 2011 in full sun with sharp drainage.  Slowly, the plant has grown to 5 feet wide reaching 2 feet tall.  In mild winters, stems and leaves stay green adorned by orange-red berries (not edible) which are loved by the birds.  New growth appears in spring, therefore, remove old stems as needed or all at once every other year to maintain tidiness.

 

Join or renew your membership for the month of March and your name will be included in a drawing for a complimentary division of Asparagus virgatus.