Wild asparagus (Asparagus acutifolius)

Family: Asparagaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Asparagus acutifolius is an evergreen Perennial growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from August to September. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Bees.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Shoots

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

aromatic flavour. — Young shoots - cooked.; An asparagus substitute, it is preferred by gourmets for its stronger flavour.; Excellent when seasoned with oil and lemon juice.; Thin, bitter and often stringy according to another report.

Habitat & North American Range

Bushy and dry sunny places, mainly on limestone. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)