Adscendens Asparagus (Asparagus adscendens)

Family: Asparagaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Asparagus adscendens is an evergreen Shrub. It is in leaf all year. 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. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Shoots, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The plant is a source of a nutritious starch that can be used like salep (which is obtained from various species of orchid). The part of the plant that is used is not specified but is most likely to be the root. — The plant is a source of a nutritious starch that can be used like salep (which is obtained from various species of orchid).; The part of the plant that is used is not specified but is most likely to be the root.; To make salep, the root is dried and ground into a powder.; The young shoots are probably edible, used like asparagus.

Habitat & North American Range

Found especially in Sal forests in Uttar Pradesh. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)