| Age: | Young (1-3 years) |
|---|---|
| Feature: | Evergreen |
| Function: | Clean Air |
Suppliers with verified business licenses
Audited Supplier Audited by an independent third-party inspection agency
Origin and Historical Background: Native to the coastal regions of South Africa, the Foxtail Fern is a testament to nature's creativity. Though its common name includes "fern," it is not a true fern but a hardy member of the Asparagus family, which explains its remarkable toughness and drought tolerance. The 'Myersii' cultivar was specifically selected and cultivated for its dense, upright, foxtail-like plumes, which have made it a favorite of designers worldwide.
Health and Environmental Benefits: The Foxtail Fern is a superb choice for creating sustainable, water-wise landscapes. Once established, its tuberous root system allows it to withstand periods of drought, reducing water consumption. Its dense growth provides shelter for beneficial insects and small garden wildlife. The small, white, fragrant flowers that appear in spring attract bees, and the subsequent red berries provide a food source for birds.
Simple Care Guide: This plant is prized for its beauty and its ease of care.
Light: Highly adaptable, it thrives in conditions from Full Sun to Partial Sun/Partial Shade. In very hot inland climates, a location with afternoon shade will help maintain the richest green color.
Watering: Water Weekly after planting to establish a strong root system. Once established in the landscape, it is very drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental water.
Soil: Adapts well to a variety of soil types but performs best in well-draining soil.
Hardiness: It is a tough, Evergreen perennial in mild climates (USDA Zones 9-11) and is root-hardy in cooler temperate zones, where it may die back in winter and return in spring.
Versatile Applications: Use the Foxtail Fern as a "textural exclamation point" in your designs. Its upright, architectural plumes provide a stunning contrast when planted alongside broad-leafed plants like Hostas or low-mounding groundcovers. Plant it in masses for a dramatic, feathery sea of green, or use it in a line to create a unique, low, informal border. It is an outstanding choice for adding year-round structure and interest to large pots and planters.
Key Advantages:
Unique Architectural Form: The bold, upright, foxtail-like plumes provide a sculptural quality that is both striking and playful.
Superb Fine Texture: Adds a soft, feathery texture to the garden that contrasts beautifully with other plants and hardscaping materials.
Drought Tolerant & Low-Maintenance: A reliable and easy-care choice for adding lush greenery to sunny, dry locations.
Highly Versatile: Performs beautifully in the ground and in containers, fitting seamlessly into a wide range of garden styles from modern to Mediterranean.
){kind=link}