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SPEC Amongst the smallest of the ornamental fig family is Ficus pumila, the creeping fig, a small, much branched plant which makes a dense carpet of foliage, suitable for "ground cover", climbing up moss sticks, and for hanging baskets. 'White Sunny' has charming white edged leaves.
POSITION These appreciate a shady position, and should be kept out of direct sunlight. They are more tolerant of low winter temperatures than most ficus.
CARE These can be more difficult than their larger relatives as they need evenly moist compost and moist air. The thin leaves will quickly shrivel if they are allowed to dry out. Water regularly with tepid water, giving less in winter and mist the leaves occasionally. Remove any leaves that revert to plain green. In warm rooms, watch out for red spider mite. |
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SPEC Despite its name, the asparagus fern (Asparagus densiflorus sprengeri), is not in fact a fern, although the long, arching or trailing stems of graceful feathery, needle-like leaves that a ferny look. The plants look their best given plenty of space, so a hanging basket makes an ideal home. The "leaves", which are acutally modified branchlets, are a bright green, giving them their alternative name of emerald fern.
POSITION They will grow in bright or shady conditions, but keep out of direct sunlight to avoid scorch.
CARE Tolerant of a wide range of conditions. Water sparingly in winter and keep in a minimum temperature of 10oC (50oF). Mist occasionally if in dry, heated rooms. Avoid constant high temperatures, which can cause yellowing foliage and leaf drop. Repot each year in spring. |
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