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Asparagus Ferns

Asparagus Ferns
Invasive Plant
Asparagus Ferns
Asparagus scandens / Asparagus densiflorus 'Sprengerii'
 

Multi-branched prostrate and/or climbing herb from the lily family that form a dense underground mat of rhizomatous roots. The fern like branches grow to 0.6 m high and up to 2 m wide with a covering of small sharp spines. These natives from South Africa have small white-pink clusters of flowers in late summer which ripen to bright red, orange or black fruits.

 

HOW IT SPREADS

  • By dumping of garden waste. The seeds are readily dispersed by birds and small mammals.
 

Asparagus species are highly invasive environmental weeds. Of the 39 Asparagus species recorded in Australia, 18 are deemed to be weedy. These 'ferns' overtake natural species by developing dense thickets that deprive other plants of light and nutrients as well as destroying habitat. The most effective means of removal is to dig out the growth crown which lies just below the soil surface.

 
 
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Alternative Plants

Creeping Boobialla
Photo: Macbird Floraprint
Alternative Plant Creeping Boobialla
Myoporum parvifolium
Climbing and Ground Cover Plants
 

A native of South Australia, this evergreen hardy plant forms a dense, weed suppressing ground cover that will easily cover one square metre. This species thrives if grown in freelydrained soil and full-sun. The flowers are white or pink and occur from winter to summer. Sweet fleshy fruits provide food for native birds.

Gardenia
Photo: Macbird Floraprint
Alternative Plant Gardenia
Gardenia augusta 'Radicans'
Climbing and Ground Cover Plants
 

This highly sought after evergreen prostrate gardenia makes an ideal ground cover. It has dark green glossy narrow leaves and exquisite, highly fragrant small semi-double white flowers from late spring to early summer. Spot flowers often continue throughout the autumn months. This species prefers full-sun or part shade, and thrives in rich organic welldrained soils. Apply adequate moisture during the warmer months.

Grevillea Groundcovers
Photo: © immij pty ltd
Alternative Plant Grevillea Groundcovers
Grevillea species and cultivars
Climbing and Ground Cover Plants
 

Among the highly recommended varieties are 'Royal Mantle', 'Bronze Rambler' 'Bedspread' and 'Gin Gin Gem'.

All are fast growing ground cover plants ideal for mass planting and covering of large areas. The red toothbrush flowers occur in spring and autumn. These species grow to about 0.3 m high x 2 m across and are frost tolerant. Grown as 'living mulch', they will trail over banks or walls and attract nectarfeeding birds. Mass planting is highly recommended.

 
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