Landscape Uses
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South Florida Growing Guide
Light Requirements
Water Requirements
Once established (12–18 months), Foxtail Fern is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.
Low to moderate water requirements once established. Water 1-2x per week in dry season; rainy season rainfall usually adequate. Drought tolerant once established. Good drainage preferred.
Soil and Fertilization
Fertilizer: Light balanced granular. Not heavy feeder.
Schedule: February and September with light balanced fertilizer.
Salt Tolerance
- Mature Height
- 1.5–3 ft
- Mature Width
- 2–3 ft
- Growth Rate
- moderate
- Water Demand
- 2/10
- Florida Grade
- Florida #1
- Installed Cost
- $
- USDA Zones
- 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11
- FLEPPC Status
- FLEPPC Category II
- Iguana Rating
- 6/10
Where to Buy in South Florida
Find Foxtail Fern at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does Foxtail Fern grow in South Florida?
Foxtail Fern has a moderate growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.
Is Foxtail Fern safe for pets?
Foxtail Fern is not safe for pets. Berries toxic to pets — causes vomiting, diarrhea. Sharp needle-like leaves can cause skin/eye irritation.
How much water does Foxtail Fern need in South Florida?
Low water needs (2/10). Once established (12–18 months), Foxtail Fern is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.
Can Foxtail Fern tolerate salt air in South Florida?
Foxtail Fern has moderate salt tolerance (5/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.
Is Foxtail Fern available in Miami-Dade County?
In Miami-Dade County, Foxtail Fern is classified as: allowed. Allowed in managed landscapes.
County Availability in South Florida
Miami-Dade County
Allowed in managed landscapes. FLEPPC Category 2 — avoid planting near natural areas, Everglades buffer zones, or conservation lands.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.
View County Guide →Broward County
Allowed in managed landscapes. Broward has significant conservation lands — avoid planting adjacent to natural areas.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.
View County Guide →Palm Beach County
Allowed in managed landscapes. Avoid near Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge and other natural areas.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.
View County Guide →Collier County
Allowed in managed landscapes. Avoid near CREW, Corkscrew Swamp, and other conservation areas.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.
View County Guide →Monroe County
Allowed in managed landscapes. Moderate salt tolerance.
USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.
View County Guide →Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.
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Ask about Foxtail Fern
Get answers grounded in UF/IFAS research and South Florida landscape data.