How to Grow Parsley Fern
Wikimedia Commons
Parsley Fern
Asparagus setaceus
flowerParsley Fern is a delicate, feathery ornamental plant with fine, needle-like foliage that resembles parsley, hence its common name. Despite its name, it is actually a species of asparagus and is prized for its graceful, wispy appearance in floral arrangements and as a houseplant. It produces small white flowers followed by red berries, adding visual interest beyond its attractive foliage.
When should you plant Parsley Fern in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Parsley Fern timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Parsley Fern
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
First Parsley Fern blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Parsley Fern dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in USDA zones 10-11; grown as a tender houseplant in cooler climates
Sign up free to see if Parsley Fern grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Parsley Fern timeline →Growth Stages
Germination
2-4 weeksSeeds develop roots and first tiny shoots emerge. Growth is slow and requires warm, consistently moist conditions.
Maintain soil moisture and warmth (70-75°F). Provide bottom heat if possible. Germination can take 2-4 weeks.
Seedling
4-6 weeksYoung plants develop their characteristic fine, feathery foliage. Growth remains slow but foliage becomes more visible.
Provide bright, indirect light. Keep soil moist. Begin light feeding with diluted fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Maintain humidity.
Vegetative Growth
8-12 weeksPlant develops fuller, bushier form with increasing amounts of delicate fern-like foliage. Stems become more established.
Continue regular watering and high humidity. Feed monthly with balanced or slightly nitrogen-rich fertilizer. Provide support structure (stakes or trellis) if desired. Pinch back growing tips to encourage bushiness.
Flowering & Berrying
6-8 weeksPlant produces small, delicate white flowers along stems, followed by small red berries. Foliage remains the primary ornamental feature.
Maintain consistent moisture and humidity. Reduce nitrogen feeding; switch to balanced fertilizer. Pollination occurs via insects or air movement. Allow berries to develop for added visual interest.
Mature/Maintenance
OngoingPlant reaches its full ornamental form with established growth and persistent foliage year-round (indoors or in warm climates).
Maintain regular watering and feeding during growing season. Prune to shape and remove any yellowed or damaged foliage. Can be propagated from cuttings or seeds for renewal.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Increase humidity by misting and grouping plants. Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap weekly until resolved. Isolate infested plants.
-
Remove with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Inspect regularly for reinfestation.
-
Use yellow sticky traps. Spray with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Increase air circulation.
-
Remove manually with brush or cloth. Apply horticultural oil or neem oil to affected areas. Monitor closely.
-
Ensure excellent drainage and avoid overwatering. Repot in fresh soil if roots are affected. Reduce watering frequency, especially in winter.
Uses
Floral Arrangements & Greenery
CraftParsley Fern's delicate, feathery foliage is highly valued by florists and flower arrangers as a complementary greenery. Its fine texture adds elegance and airiness to bouquets, wreaths, and other floral designs. [source]
Indoor Houseplant Decoration
HouseholdThe plant's graceful appearance makes it an attractive ornamental houseplant for bright indoor spaces. It adds visual softness and a tropical touch to living rooms, offices, and conservatories. [source]
Insect-Friendly Plant
WildlifeThe flowers attract pollinators and beneficial insects, while the red berries provide food for birds. The delicate foliage also offers shelter for small beneficial arthropods. [source]
Wedding & Event Design
CraftDue to its delicate appearance and long vase life, Parsley Fern is a favorite choice for wedding bouquets, table arrangements, and premium event floral designs. [source]
Harvest Tips
Parsley Fern is grown as an ornamental, not harvested for consumption. For floral arrangements, cut sprigs at the base or just below a node using clean scissors. Cut in the morning when stems are turgid. Cuttings can be used fresh in arrangements or propagated to create new plants. Maintain plant shape by selectively pruning long stems.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Despite its common name 'Parsley Fern,' it is not actually a fern at all, but rather a species of asparagus (Asparagus setaceus). This is why it produces berries rather than spores.
- 🌱 In Victorian times, Parsley Fern was extremely popular as a parlor plant and was a status symbol in homes because it was delicate and required specific care conditions.
- 🌱 The plant can live for many years as a houseplant and will continue to produce new growth and flowers, becoming more mature and woody at the base over time.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Parsley Fern planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Parsley Fern seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Parsley Fern timeline →