Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis)

Family: Asparagaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Asparagus officinalis is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft) by 0.8 m (2ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in August, and the seeds ripen from September to October. 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, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young shoots - raw or cooked. Considered a gourmet food, the shoots are harvested in the spring. We find them very acceptable raw in salads, with a hint of onion in their flavour. — Young shoots - raw or cooked.; Considered a gourmet food, the shoots are harvested in the spring.; We find them very acceptable raw in salads, with a hint of onion in their flavour.; They are normally boiled or steamed and used as a vegetable.

Habitat & North American Range

Fertile and sandy soils by the seashore and along river banks. (Zone 2, Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)