Scientific Name: 
Asparagus spp.

Common Name: 
Asparagus Fern, Ornamental Asparagus

Thorns/Spines?

How is this plant unsafe?

How do you plant safely?

No

• Brushing up against the plant may cause dermatitis and fruits may contain saponins which are compounds that can cause upset stomach, nausea and vomiting if eaten.

• There are many species, cultivars and varieties of this plant available in the nursery trade, caution should be used with all of the ornamental types of aspargus.

• Asparagus officinalis, the cultivated vegetable, is safe to grow and eat and is different from the ornamental varieties of Asparagus.

• Some of the cultivated species of Asparagus are invasive in California's wildlands, see https://www.cal-ipc.org/plants/paf/asparagus-asparagoides-plant-assessment-form for more information.

• Use caution when working with this plant and consider wearing protective clothing such as long sleeves, long pants, gloves, sturdy shoes and eye protection.

• Supervise pets and children when playing near this plant.