First, let us clarify a fundamental botanical point: we, the Fox Tail Ferns (Asparagus densiflorus 'Myersii'), do not produce true seeds. The term "seed" implies a specific reproductive structure formed by flowering plants after the fertilization of an ovule within an ovary. We belong to a much older lineage, the division Monilophyta, which reproduces via spores. Therefore, the question of growing us from seed is, technically, based on a misunderstanding. The correct inquiry would be: "Can you grow a Fox Tail Fern from a spore?" The answer is a resounding yes, but it is a path of great patience and specific conditions, quite different from sowing a bean or a marigold seed.
To understand the process, you must understand our unique life cycle, which involves two distinct, independent generations. The plant you recognize as a Fox Tail Fern—with its dense, plume-like stems (which are not true leaves but modified branches called cladodes)—is the sporophyte generation. This is the dominant, asexual phase. When mature and happy, our sporophyte self will produce spores. These spores develop in tiny cases called sporangia, which are typically clustered together in structures known as sori, often found on the undersides of the specialized, scale-like leaves on our stems. These spores are microscopic, dust-like particles, and they are our method of dispersal.
When a spore is released and finds a perfectly suitable environment—consistently moist, humid, with a porous substrate like a sterile peat mix or finely milled sphagnum moss—it will germinate. But it does not grow directly into a Fox Tail Fern. Instead, it grows into the second generation in our life cycle: the gametophyte, or prothallus. This is a tiny, heart-shaped, thumbnail-sized plant that is independent and lives a brief life. The prothallus is the sexual generation. On its underside, it develops both male organs (antheridia) that produce sperm and female organs (archegonia) that contain eggs.
This is the most delicate part of our journey. For a new Fox Tail Fern sporophyte to be created, fertilization must occur. The sperm, being flagellated, must swim through a film of water to reach and fertilize the egg within the archegonium. This is why constant, high humidity is non-negotiable for successful propagation from spores. Without a thin layer of water on the surface of the prothallus, the sperm cannot travel, and no new fern will be born. This requirement directly links our reproductive success to the wet environments many of our fern ancestors inhabited.
Once the egg is fertilized, it develops into a zygote, which is the beginning of the new sporophyte generation. This tiny embryo draws nutrients from the gametophyte prothallus initially. The first frond (or in our case, the first modified stem) will emerge, and soon after, the root system will establish itself. The gametophyte, having served its purpose, will gradually wither away. The young Fox Tail Fern will then begin its slow growth, eventually developing the characteristic bushy "tail" over many months, or even a couple of years.
While propagating us from spores is a fascinating and rewarding botanical project, it is a very slow process, often taking years to produce a presentable potted plant. This is why most of my kind found in nurseries are propagated vegetatively through division of our tuberous root system. This method is faster and guarantees the exact characteristics of the parent plant. Growing from spore is a test of patience, requiring a sterile environment, unwavering humidity, and a long-term commitment. But for those who wish to witness the ancient and elegant reproductive dance of a fern, it is an unparalleled experience.
