Foxtail Fern vs Asparagus Fern: What’s the Difference?

Written by August Croft
Updated: October 15, 2023
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Did you know that both the foxtail fern vs asparagus fern aren’t actually ferns at all? In fact, most of these plants belong to the asparagus family or the lily family. But what’s the difference between an asparagus fern and a foxtail fern in the first place? And why should you be interested in either of these two plants?

In this article, we will go over everything you need to know about foxtail ferns and asparagus ferns so that you can gain a true understanding of both plants. We will address what these plants look like as well as the ways in which they are typically used. Finally, we will go over their hardiness zones and plant care in case you are planning on growing either of these two ferns. Let’s get started now!

Comparing Foxtail Fern vs Asparagus Fern

Foxtail Fern vs Asparagus Fern
All foxtail ferns are asparagus ferns, but not all asparagus ferns are foxtail ferns based on the species classification.
Foxtail Fern Asparagus Fern
ClassificationAsparagus densiflorus ‘Meyeri’Asparagus setaceus
DescriptionGrows in clusters of plumes, like fluffy pine needles. Reaches 3 feet tall and wide, and sprouts delicate white flowers that become red berries in the fall.A variety of ornamental plants that have wispy, feathery leaves, slightly similar to true ferns. Grows berries or flowers, depending on the variety, and the leaves are often prickly rather than soft. 
UsesAn ideal houseplant or outdoor container plant given its tall and plume-like foliage. Not ideal for ground cover like other varieties, but a perfect statement piece.Frequently used as ground cover or in containers for its appearance and delicate flowers. Needs to be maintained or contained, as it can easily become an invasive species.
Hardiness Zones9-117-11, depending on species
Water and Light NeedsGrows well in morning sunshine and partial shade, though can also be brought indoors in indirect sunlight settings. Enjoys bright, indirect sunlight and misting daily. Water when the top inch of soil dries out, as some species are more drought-resistant than others

Key Differences Between Foxtail Fern vs Asparagus Fern

foxtail fern vs asparagus fern

Foxtail ferns work best in container planters compared to other asparagus ferns, as the roots of the foxtail fern can choke other plants attempting to grow nearby.

©ablephoto/Shutterstock.com

There are many key differences between foxtail ferns and asparagus ferns. All foxtail ferns are asparagus ferns, but not all asparagus ferns are foxtail ferns based on the species classification. In addition, foxtail ferns make ideal statement plants, while some asparagus ferns are better suited as ground cover. Finally, foxtail ferns grow small white flowers that become red berries, while this is not the case for all asparagus ferns.

Let’s go over all of these differences in more detail now.

Foxtail Fern vs Asparagus Fern: Classification

An important distinction between foxtail ferns and asparagus ferns has to be their classifications. The foxtail fern is a type of asparagus fern, which means that there are other types of asparagus ferns as well. While this makes it difficult to make a direct comparison between foxtail ferns and all other types of asparagus ferns, you at least know that the foxtail fern is a type of asparagus fern!

foxtail fern vs asparagus fern

Foxtail ferns grow in tall clusters of large plumes with delicate leaves, while many other types of asparagus ferns grow lower to the ground.

©Amvi Jovas/Shutterstock.com

Foxtail Fern vs Asparagus Fern: Description

The foxtail fern is one of the most distinct and popular varieties of asparagus ferns because of its appearance. Foxtail ferns grow in tall clusters of large plumes with delicate leaves, while many other types of asparagus ferns grow lower to the ground. Depending on the season, foxtail ferns grow small white flowers that become red berries, while not all asparagus ferns do this.

In addition to their bottle brush plumes, foxtail ferns have slightly prickly leaves, like pine needles, which is a trait shared with many types of asparagus ferns. While they may look soft, both asparagus fern varieties and foxtail ferns don’t typically like being touched! Additionally, foxtail ferns work best in container planters compared to other asparagus ferns, as the roots of the foxtail fern can choke other plants attempting to grow nearby.

Foxtail Fern vs Asparagus Fern: Uses

foxtail fern vs asparagus fern

Compared to other types of asparagus ferns, foxtail ferns are commonly used in flower arrangements.

©kttpngart/Shutterstock.com

There are a number of ornamental uses for both foxtail ferns and asparagus ferns. For example, foxtail ferns work best as houseplants or outdoor container plants, while many other asparagus ferns work well as ground cover or shrubs. Compared to other types of asparagus ferns, foxtail ferns are commonly used in flower arrangements as well.

It is extremely important to pay attention to the growth habits of your outdoor asparagus fern, and this includes foxtail ferns as well. Depending on the region and weather, these plants can quickly grow out of control and invade areas. Some states have even banned them when planted in an outdoor setting without a container, so keep this in mind!

Foxtail Fern vs Asparagus Fern: Hardiness Zones

Both foxtail ferns and asparagus ferns have extremely similar hardiness zones. While this is likely because they are the same species of plant, some asparagus ferns can survive in more zones compared to the foxtail fern. However, the average hardiness zones for asparagus ferns and foxtail ferns is 9-11. You can protect the roots of other asparagus fern varieties if you live in zones 7-8, but most of these plants prefer a slightly warmer climate.

foxtail fern vs asparagus fern

For the most part, foxtail ferns work best as houseplants or outdoor container plants, while many other asparagus ferns work well as ground cover or shrubs.

©KlavdiyaV/Shutterstock.com

Foxtail Fern vs Asparagus Fern: Water and Light Needs

Foxtail ferns and asparagus fern varieties have fairly similar water and light needs. However, foxtail ferns are regarded as more resistant and hardy compared to other asparagus fern types. No matter the variety, all asparagus ferns prefer bright, indirect light, and you should be sure to water them when the top inch or two of their soil is dry. This goes for both indoor and outdoor plants too!

Can You Grow Foxtail or Asparagus Ferns as Houseplants?

Yes! Here is how:

Foxtail Ferns (Asparagus densiflorus): These ferns can be grown as houseplants and make great additions to any home. They thrive in bright, indirect light. Place them in front of a north or east-facing window. It is important to keep the soil moist, but not soggy. Water your Foxtail Fern every one to two weeks or when the top inch of soil feels dry. Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Asparagus Ferns (Asparagus setaceus): Asparagus ferns are great houseplants and can be grown in bright, indirect light. Place them near a north or east-facing window for best results. Keep the soil evenly moist by watering when the top inch of soil feels dry. Fertilize every 30 days in the spring and summer with a 10-10-10 fertilizer. These plants do not like to stay too wet, so make sure there is plenty of organic material in the soil, like orchid bark. To promote bushiness, pinch off the tips of the stems regularly, otherwise, they can get very long and leggy.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © KlavdiyaV/Shutterstock.com


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About the Author

August Croft is a writer at A-Z Animals where their primary focus is on astrology, symbolism, and gardening. August has been writing a variety of content for over 4 years and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Theater from Southern Oregon University, which they earned in 2014. They are currently working toward a professional certification in astrology and chart reading. A resident of Oregon, August enjoys playwriting, craft beer, and cooking seasonal recipes for their friends and high school sweetheart.

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