The foxtail fern takes full sun to partial shade, but grows more densely in full sun. This plant likes well-draining, amended soil for optimum growth. The foxtail fern has an extensive root system with large tubers that can store water and food during periods of drought. This low-growing evergreen has feathery, upright, bright green, needle-like stems and trailing branches. It is not a true fern but has fern-like foliage and a dense growth habit, growing two to three feet tall and three to four feet wide.