Asparagus virgatus is a species of flowering plant in the Asparagaceae family.[1] It indigenous to South Eastern Africa. It is also known as tree fern, tiki fern,[2] and African broom fern.[3] Asparagus virgatus is a member of the genus Asparagus, and not a true fern.
| Asparagus virgatus | |
|---|---|
| |
| Asparagus virgatus cultivation | |
Scientific classification 
| |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Monocots |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Subfamily: | Asparagoideae |
| Genus: | Asparagus |
| Species: | A. virgatus
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| Binomial name | |
| Asparagus virgatus | |
| Synonyms | |
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Asparagus sylvaticus Burch. ex Baker | |
Description
editThe plant grows several fine bushy stems with needle like leaves, reaching over one meter in length. This perennial plant produces small white flowers during spring, and small spherical red fruits that then turn black as they mature.
This plant can be found growing in the shady undergrowth, especially along rivers. Although water loving, this plant is able to survive with little water.
Uses
editUnlike edible Asparagus officinalis, A. virgatus has little or no nutritional value to people.
Cut flower industry
editA. virgatus is of commercial value, used world wide in the cut flower industry as foliage. The plant produces attractive green bushy stems with fine needle like leaves.
When combined with rose, gerbera, and other focal flowers it forms an attractive floral display. Vase life is typically two weeks. High quality stems can be identified by the fresh green color, and stem length.
Major producing areas include South Africa, Central America, Florida, Israel, and the Near East.
References
edit- ^ "Asparagus virgatus Baker". Plants of the World Online. The Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. n.d. Retrieved July 15, 2020.
- ^ Florida Agriculture http://www.florida-agriculture.com/consumers/tree_fern.htm
- ^ Plant Database "Asparagus virgatus - African broom fern". Archived from the original on 2012-04-06. Retrieved 2011-11-16.