Encyclopedia Definition of Asparagus
Perennial garden vegetable (Asparagus officinalis) of the Lily family, native to the East Mediterranean area, cultivated from antiquity and now grown in much of the world. Its green stems function as leaves, and the true leaves are reduced to scales. Its edible shoots are cut in the spring. Related species, the asparagus fern (A. plumosus) and smilax (A. asparagoides), are used for decoration.
HISTORY OF ASPARAGUS
Asparagus has been prized by epicures since Roman times!
The name asparagus comes from the Greek language meaning "sprout" or "shoot" and is a member of the Lily family. Widely cultivated for its tender, succulent, edible shoots, asparagus cultivation began more than 2,000 years ago in the eastern Mediterranean region. Greeks and Romans prized asparagus for its unique flavor, texture and alleged medicinal qualities. They ate it fresh when in season and dried the vegetable for use in winter.
One could say asparagus is an international food. With its high tolerance for salt and its preference for sandy soils, wild asparagus grows in such diverse places as England, central Wisconsin, Russia, and Poland. Asparagus is depicted in ancient Egyptian writings. Asparagus has also been grown in Syria and Spain since ancient times.In the 16th Century, asparagus gained popularity in France and England. From there, the early colonists brought it to America. Asparagus is often called the "Food of Kings." King Louis XIV of France was so fond of this delicacy that he ordered special greenhouses built so he could enjoy asparagus all year-round!
Asparagus is very versatile. In China, asparagus spears are candied and served as special treats. It is widely popular today as a scrumptious, fresh, and healthy vegetable. People throughout Europe, Asia, and North America use fresh asparagus in their favorite cuisine.
