Asparagus : Sweet Purple

Rare purple variety with a rich, sweet flavor

Unique, deep-burgundy asparagus. With a 20% higher sugar content, this variety can be eaten raw! Spears are generally larger than green types and more tender and less stringy. Mild nutty flavor when cooked. Asparagus is a hardy perennial and grows well in most areas. Beds are productive for 10 to 20 years, so plant in permanent location.

Asparagaceae Asparagus officinalis

This is an example of the timeline you would see based on your growing conditions.

Asparagus: Asparagus (Crown)

Sweet Purple

Asparagus is a herbaceous, perennial plant which grows to 36 to 60" tall, with stout stems and clusters of feathery foliage.

Asparagus crowns can be purchased online or from your local nursery. When looking for crowns look for fresh ones with firm roots. If the roots are shriveled or feel papery, don't use them.

Basics

Ease of Growing: Moderate
Grown as: Perennial
Growing Habit: -
Hardiness: Hardy

Asparagus doesn't like very hot humid areas or very mild winters.
Crops: Spring Transplant
Growing Season: Short, Long
Cultivar Type: -
Growing Conditions: Cold, Cool, Warm

Asparagus likes a sunny spot. It can take some light shade, but won't be as productive. These plants should be sheltered from strong winds and well away from large trees or shrubs, with their vigorous feeder roots.
Outdoor Growing Temp: 45°F - 85°F
Min Outdoor Soil Temp: 45°F

Asparagus can be planted out in early spring, as soon as the soil is in workable condition. However there is no rush, as it will take up to three years before you get a good harvest. Some people say late spring (after all danger of frost is passed) is actually better, as the plants grow faster in the warmer soil and there is less danger of rot.
Start Indoors: No
Start Outdoors: No
Light: Sun: min. 6 hours daily (Cold, Cool, Warm)

Give the plants full sun and shelter from strong winds. Keep them well away from large trees and shrubs and their hungry roots.
Water: Moderate

The plants are fairly drought tolerant, but produce better if watered regularly. This is particularly important for young plants. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep rooting.
Feeder: Moderate

Asparagus is a fairly hungry plant and responds well to additional nutrients.
Suitability: Drought tolerant, Tolerates light frost, Tolerates hard frost, Partial shade, Needs lots of space
Small Gardens?: No
Containers?: No
Attracts beneficial insects?: No
Color: Deep burgundy, purple
Fruit Size: 6.0 - 9.0"
Plant Height: 48.0 - 60.0"
Plant Diameter: 12.0 - 30.0"
Hardiness Zone: 3-9
Disease Resistance
Taste Profile: Sweet, mild, nutty and delicate; more tender than green asparagus. Will turn green when cooked.
Rotation Group: Perennial

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Plant Guide

Asparagus : Sweet Purple

Rare purple variety with a rich, sweet flavor

Sweet Purple

Basics