Asparagus Description

The beautiful appearance and delicate flavor of asparagus make it a favorite among vegetable lovers. This nutrient-dense vegetable is also a delicious part of many vegetable recipes. In this article, we'll talk about growing asparagus, selecting and serving asparagus, and the health benefits of asparagus.

tender young stem of the asparagus plant
©2007 Publications International, Ltd.
The tender young stem of the
asparagus plant is the part that is eaten.
See more pictures of asparagus.

About Asparagus

Asparagus is a long-lived hardy perennial with fleshy roots and fernlike, feathery foliage. The plant grows about 3 feet tall. The part that is eaten is the tender young stem. The popular houseplant asparagus fern is not a fern at all but a diminutive relative of edible asparagus.

Common Name: Asparagus
Scientific Name: Asparagus officinalis
Hardiness: Hardy (may survive first frost)

In the next section, we'll show you how to grow asparagus.

Want more information about asparagus? Try:
  • Vegetable Recipes: Find delicious recipes that feature asparagus.
  • Vegetable Gardens: Grow a full harvest of great vegetables this year.
  • Gardening: We answer your questions about all things that come from the garden.