Foxtail Fern
Foxtail Fern
Boasting an unusual look for an evergreen, the Foxtail Fern is a truly unique addition to your landscaping. Featuring long Pony Tail Fern style stems with a lot of soft, needle-like leaves that point up in thick, curving branches, the Foxtail Fern isn’t a plant for the unadventurous gardener. Truly capable of adding a whimsical quality to any area you decide to place it in, it looks it’s best in a hanging basket or border so it can really grow free to its true potential of about 2 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. Preferring placement that receives partial shade to partial sun and a moist, but not soggy, soil, you’ll love this fun plant for the little bit of care it requires and its prized foliage. Every fall the amazing Foxtail Fern grows striking red ornamental berries that add that touch of color to your fall/winter garden look.
Questions & Answers
Have a Question?
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Do you sell this Fern in any smaller pot? And amount?
We currently don't have the foxtail fern in a smaller pot. But we will soon.
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can a foxtail fern survive as a houseplant?
Yes, a Foxtail Fern (Asparagus densiflorus 'Meyeri') can survive and thrive as a houseplant. In fact, it's a popular choice for indoor gardening due to its attractive, feathery foliage and relatively low maintenance needs.
Tips for Growing Foxtail Fern Indoors:
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Light:
- Foxtail Ferns prefer bright, indirect light. They can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in the morning, but too much direct light can cause the foliage to yellow or burn.
- If you don't have a spot with enough natural light, you can supplement with fluorescent or grow lights.
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Watering:
- Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent overwatering.
- During winter, when the plant's growth slows, reduce the watering frequency slightly.
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Humidity:
- Foxtail Ferns prefer higher humidity levels, which can be a challenge in dry indoor environments. You can increase humidity by misting the plant regularly, using a humidity tray, or placing a humidifier nearby.
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Temperature:
- Foxtail Ferns thrive in temperatures between 60-75°F (16-24°C). Keep them away from drafts, cold windows, and heat sources like radiators.
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Soil:
- Use a well-draining potting mix. A mix designed for ferns or a general-purpose potting soil with added perlite or sand will work well.
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Fertilizing:
- Feed the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding during the fall and winter when the plant is not actively growing.
With the right care, a Foxtail Fern can be a lush and attractive houseplant, adding greenery and texture to your indoor space.
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Can they stay outside during winter? I live in southern Illinois
In southern Illinois, a Foxtail Fern (Asparagus densiflorus 'Meyeri') is unlikely to survive the winter outdoors. This plant is hardy in USDA Zones 9-11, which means it thrives in warmer climates where winter temperatures rarely drop below 20°F (-6°C).
Winter Considerations for Foxtail Fern in Southern Illinois:
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Cold Tolerance:
- Southern Illinois typically falls within USDA Zones 6a-7a, where winter temperatures can drop well below freezing. Foxtail Ferns are not frost-tolerant and can suffer significant damage or die if exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures.
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Overwintering Options:
- Bring Indoors: The best way to protect your Foxtail Fern during winter is to bring it indoors. Place it in a bright spot with indirect light, and keep the soil slightly moist.
- Greenhouse: If you have access to a greenhouse, you can overwinter the plant there, where temperatures are more controlled.
- Mulching: If you choose to leave the fern outside, heavy mulching can provide some protection, but this is generally not sufficient to prevent cold damage in southern Illinois.
In summary, to ensure your Foxtail Fern survives the winter in southern Illinois, it’s best to bring it indoors or provide some form of frost protection.
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Will it grow back grow back every summer
Yes, a Foxtail Fern (Asparagus densiflorus 'Meyeri') will grow back every summer in warmer climates, typically in USDA Zones 9 to 11, where it can act as a perennial. In colder zones, the foxtail fern may not survive freezing temperatures, so it is often treated as an annual or brought indoors during winter. If properly cared for, it will return each year, offering lush, arching fronds that thrive in partial shade to full sun. Keep the soil well-drained and water regularly for optimal growth.
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how much for the 3 gal.?
the 3 gallon foxtail fern is 36.99 plus shipping
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where are you located?
central Louisiana
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Should the foxtail fern be brought indoors for the winter?
Yes, foxtail ferns (Asparagus densiflorus) should be brought indoors for the winter if you live in an area where temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C). These plants are not frost-hardy and can be damaged by freezing temperatures. If you cannot bring them inside, consider covering them with a frost cloth or moving them to a protected location to prevent cold damage. Indoors, place the foxtail fern in a bright spot with indirect sunlight and water sparingly during the winter months.
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Tempature that's good for the foxtail indoors or outdoors
Foxtail ferns thrive in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (16°C to 24°C). For outdoor planting, they can tolerate mild temperatures but should be brought inside or protected if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C). Indoors, keep them in a well-lit space with stable room temperatures, avoiding cold drafts or extreme heat. If you live in an area with colder winters, it's best to bring them inside when temperatures fall below 50°F (10°C). They do well in both indoor and outdoor settings as long as they are shielded from temperature extremes.
The fox tail arrived in excellent condition!