What it is: This listing is sold as a plumosa fern, but it is not a true fern. NC State Extension lists Asparagus setaceus as asparagus fern, lace fern or plumosa fern, in the asparagus family (Asparagaceae), not a true fern. The feathery sprays are cladodes, not fern fronds. The title spelling (plumosa) has been left as written.

Light: Give it bright, indirect light and avoid direct sun; NC State Extension says insufficient light or water can make the needle-like cladodes yellow and drop, and that they will not green up again, though new growth can appear at the soil line once conditions improve. A grow bulb helps in our dark winters. Use a moist, well-drained, peaty potting mix (NC State Extension).

Watering & care: Water regularly in spring through autumn and more sparingly in winter (NC State Extension). Empty any saucer so the pot does not sit in water; overwatering can cause root rot.

Humidity: They need high humidity (NC State Extension). A humidifier is a better choice than a pebble tray in our dry indoor winter air.

Temperature: NC State Extension recommends about 13–21 °C (55–70 °F) and lists USDA zones 9 to 12 for outdoor plants. Bring it indoors before temperatures drop near 13 °C (55 °F). Keep it off cold glass.

Winter indoors: Water more sparingly in winter (NC State Extension). Keep it in a bright, frost-free window or under a grow bulb, and off cold glass.

Expected indoor size: NC State Extension notes that in its native habitat this plant can grow 10 to 20 feet tall, which is larger than most homes. As a houseplant, its mature size ranges from 2 to 3 feet (dimensions table 2–3 ft tall × 2–3 ft wide).

Feeding: Feed lightly during the growing season with our Schultz All Purpose Plant Food, and ease off in winter.

Pets & pests: This is not a true fern. The ASPCA lists Asparagus Fern (Asparagus densiflorus, with plumosa fern among the common names) as toxic to dogs and cats (allergic dermatitis with repeated skin contact; berry ingestion can cause vomiting, abdominal pain or diarrhea). NC State Extension describes this species, Asparagus setaceus (also sold as plumosa or lace fern), as having medium-severity poison characteristics: berries can cause abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea in people and pets, and the sap may irritate skin. Stems can be spiny; wear gloves and keep it out of reach of children and pets. Watch for mealybugs, spider mites, aphids and slugs (NC State Extension).

About your plant: Every plant is a little different. Size, fullness and leaf count vary from plant to plant and change with age and light, so we can't promise a particular frond length, fullness or colour. The options listed (2-1/2", 4", 6") refer to the pot or container size. They do not guarantee an exact frond length, fullness or colour. Photos show typical plants from our greenhouse, not the specific plant you will receive. The shared gallery image shows other Ferns as inspiration.