Asparagus densiflorus "Sprengeri"

Asparagus densiflorus is a perennial, evergreen plant that presents several growth forms. Some of them have become popular cultivars in the gardening world as ornamental plants.

The one in picture, "Sprengeri", is scrambling or spreading. The smaller (and fewer) spines found on this plant than on many other South African Asparagus species may contribute to its preferred status among gardeners. Looks do count!

The many curved branches form a thick mat or cushion of the tiny green foliage. The leaves or more accurately, leaf-like cladodes, are narrow and oblong with acute tips. They are dark to pale green or yellowish.

The flowers are white or light pink in colour. Like some other Asparagus species the flowers are sweetly scented. They may be more noted for their aroma than their looks, because the flowers are so small and inconspicuous, hidden among the leaves. The summer blooming season is short, lasting only about two weeks. The fruits are small spherical berries, initially green before turning bright red. Each contains one large black seed that is popular with birds (www.plantzafrica.com; Wikipedia).