[4] Originally described by the German botanist Carl Sigismund Kunth, its Latin specific epithet setaceus means "hairy".

[5] Asparagus setaceus is a scrambling evergreen perennial with tough green stems and leaves, which may reach several metres in length.

[9] In Australia it is considered an invasive species and this hardiness has helped it become a weed in Lord Howe and Norfolk Islands.

[10] Other areas that regard it as an invasive species and noxious weed include the North Coast of New South Wales,[11] and Queensland.

[12] Asparagus setaceus is toxic to many domestic animals, including dogs and cats, and if they ingest the berries, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and allergic dermatitis may result.