Overview

Asparagus virgatus is a suckering herbaceous perennial in the genus Asparagus, part of the Asparagaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Asparagus virgatus grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include culinary and ornamental.

About

Asparagus virgatus is a species of flowering plant in the Asparagaceae family. It is also known as tree fern, tiki fern, and African broom fern. Asparagus virgatus is a member of the genus Asparagus, and not a true fern. It is native to Angola, Cape Provinces, Eswatini, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal and other regions. In the garden it prefers full sun and loam soil. In UK gardens it is hardy through an average UK winter (RHS H4). Suggested uses include culinary and ornamental. It tolerates neutral soils, moist but well-drained conditions and south-facing aspects. Plant at appropriate depth in well-drained soil.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Asparagus virgatus

About the genus

Asparagus or garden asparagus is a perennial flowering plant species in the genus Asparagus native to Eurasia. Widely cultivated as a vegetable crop, its young shoots are used as a spring vegetable.

Wikipedia contributors, "Asparagus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Asparagus

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Asparagus

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil type

Loam

Soil pH

Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained

Aspect

South-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H4

Plant details

Asparagus virgatus size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Herbaceous Perennial

Habit

Suckering

Foliage

Deciduous

Suggested uses

Culinary, Ornamental

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Asparagus virgatus

Propagation

Crowns

Pest resistance

Asparagus beetle, slugs, snails

Disease resistance

Foot and root rots, violet root rot

Frequently asked questions