Asparagus ferns are tender, bright green plants perfect for home décor. Though the asparagus fern (Asparagus densiflorus) is native to the rocky, open woods, and coastal areas of southeastern South Africa, you can keep asparagus ferns anywhere in your home.
Having asparagus ferns in your home is aesthetically pleasing and amazingly useful. Learn about the five benefits of having asparagus ferns in your home by reading up on the tips below.
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1. Air Purifier
Asparagus ferns’ green needle-like cladodes (short, flat stems) look and function like leaves. The cladodes effectively remove volatile organic compounds like benzene, octane, and toluene from the environment, thus, purifying the air around them.
Studies show that indoor air is significantly more polluted than outdoor air. Paints, varnishes, clothing, furnishings, and even tap water all give rise to indoor air pollutants.
A study by the Department of Horticulture at the University of Georgia tested 28 common houseplants for their ability to remove toxins from the indoor air. Asparagus ferns were one of the plants that had the highest removal rates of indoor pollutants.
2. Decorative Purposes
Asparagus ferns can be placed anywhere in the house. People often plant asparagus ferns in hanging baskets to decorate their patios. You can also put them on your coffee table or nightstand. Ensure you provide all the proper care, like enough light, humidity, and water. You can even keep them in your bathroom where they’ll be happy with the humidity.
Asparagus ferns also produce small flowers and berries, which can add the dash of beauty your house needs. However, be careful because these berries can be toxic for humans and pets and might cause skin irritation.
3. Houseplant Companions
Asparagus ferns make great companion plants. They look great when paired with plants with contrasting leaf shapes and can give your house a tropical feel.
Asparagus ferns are a great companion to begonias and asters. Both these houseplants require almost the same care as asparagus ferns and are aesthetically pleasing when planted with ferns. Other companion plants for these stunning ferns include hibiscus, lantana, and mandevilla — their colorful blooms will contrast well against the ferns green foliage.
Pro Tip: You can also plant asparagus ferns outside in zones 9 to 11 and bring that tropical beauty outdoors.
4. Floral Arrangements
The daintiness of asparagus ferns makes them the perfect ingredient for flower arrangements. Place them in a vase beside your bed or coffee table, add some lilies or roses, and give your house a serene look. You can also use ferns in bouquets and foam arrangements.
5. Medical Benefits
Asparagus fern is used as a traditional medicine in tropical Africa. However, its medical benefits have yet to be studied extensively. So, consult an expert if you want to try using ferns for medical purposes.
Traditionally, people have used an infusion of fern leaves to treat stomach pain. The infusion is also said to act as a tonic to boost immunity and purify the blood. Ferns are also used to treat ulcers and thrusts in the mouth associated with HIV.
Asparagus Ferns Care Tips
With so many fantastic reasons to keep asparagus ferns at home, you might be curious to know how to take the best care of them and reap maximum benefits.
To ensure that your asparagus ferns flourish, place them where there is bright, indirect sunlight. Asparagus ferns love humidity (40 to 50 percent). The ideal temperature for growing asparagus fern is around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Use a humidifier or mist your plants to increase humidity for asparagus ferns. You can also put the pot in a tray full of water and pebbles. Keeping a glass full of water near the fern can also help it receive moisture as the water evaporates in the air.
Asparagus ferns require regular watering. Water the plant until it is thoroughly moist, and don’t let it dry completely between waterings. When the top layer of soil (1 to 2 inches) is dry, it’s time to water again. Signs of an underwatered asparagus plant include droopy foliage and browning.
Note: If you keep your asparagus fern in the bathroom, place it near the window to ensure it gets enough light to thrive.
Add Ferns to Your Collection
Asparagus ferns have many benefits. These tropical plants act as natural air purifiers and can complement many houseplants to give your home an aesthetic look. Even better, their dense foliage makes them perfect for flower decorations. Just make sure to provide them with enough humidity and bright, indirect light in exchange!
Do you know any other benefits of asparagus ferns? Share them in the comments below.
Happy gardening!
