A deceptive plant, the Asparagus Setaceus looks halfway between a lacy, lightweight fern and the top of an asparagus - hence, its common name. Its tiny threadlike leaves form feathery dark green sprays, resembling fern fronds. This easy-to-grow houseplant looks good on tabletops, in hanging planters or as part of the landscape as trees in a miniature garden or for fairies to lounge under in their garden! Plumosa Fern is popular for the indoor gardener. It has a more airy, layered look, with spreading stems and soft, small needles. Watch out, though, for its climbing shoots - they'll wrap around anything available. It responds well to trimming and pruning, so you can keep the tips from getting too long. Use gloves, as it can scratch you with its small, hidden thorns. The Asparagus Fern has the reputation of being almost indestructible, indoors or out, so if you're a beginning indoor, miniature or fairy gardener, this is a good one to try.
