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Genus Asparagus (Asparagus)

Asparagus Asparagus officinalis Photo/Illustration: Michelle Gervais
ah-SPARE-ah-gus Common Name: Asparagus
Asparagus is a large genus of 300 herbs, shrubs, and vines that grow from a tuberous rhizome. Flowers are small, but are sometimes born in large feathery, fernlike masses. Leaves are small and resemble scales. Grow in a vegetable garden or border.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Edible asparagus (A. officinalis) can produce spears for up to a quarter of a century.
 Care: Asparagus needs rich soil and a sheltered site with filtered sunlight.
 Propagation: Divide crowded plants or start from seed.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Asparagus

Asparagus officinalis Asparagus officinalis
(Asparagus) Be the first to rate this plant
Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Asparagus is a perennial vegetable whose edible shoots are harvested in spring. Male plants produce better crop yields because they do not flower or fruit. The foliage is garden worthy because of its tall size and masses of feathery, delicate texture. Female plants may self-seed abundantly. Plants do not like to be moved, so choose a permanent location. Foliage is useful in floral arrangements.