Feathery asparagus
Asparagus setaceus

Family: Asparagaceae

What it is like

An evergreen vine. It is twining or trailing. It has strong thorns. The stems are wiry and it climbs 2 m high. The leaves are small and flat and arranged like a feather. The flowers are small and white. They are 3 mm long. The fruit are red to black berries. They have 1-3 seeds.

Where it is found

It is a tropical plant. It grows in open forest. It is best in moist soil and a partly shaded position. It is damaged by frost and drought.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Argentina, Asia, Australia, Botswana, China, East Africa, Eswatini, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Lesotho, Malawi, Marquesas, Mozambique, Nauru, North America, Pacific, Rotuma, SE Asia, South Africa (country/location of origin), Southern Africa, South America, Swaziland, USA, Zambia, Zimbabwe

How it is used for food

The plants is eaten as a vegetable.

Edible parts

Shoots, vegetable

How it is grown

Plants can be grown by seed or division of the rhizome.

Its other names

Local names

Asparagus fern, Asparagus pemanjat, Ilutwa, Mahlabane, Pakis asparagus, Ruringare, Silevu sembuti, Umutsi weklubeleka

Synonyms

Asparagus plumosus Baker; Protoasparagus plumosus (Baker) Oberm.; Protoasparagus setaceus (Kunth) Oberm.;