Asparagus Purple Passion

Mix-and-match for free shipping when purchasing 6 or more perennial berries, vines, or crowns!   Purple Passion asparagus is a unique and striking variety, producing thick, tender spears with a vibrant purple hue. Known for its sweet, nutty flavor, this asparagus is perfect for fresh eating, steaming, or adding a gourmet touch to salads and side dishes. The spears retain their color when lightly cooked, making them an eye-catching addition to any meal. Thriving in full sun and well-draining soil, Purple Passion is disease-resistant and performs well in a variety of climates. With its exceptional flavor, ornamental appeal, and reliable yields, Purple Passion asparagus is a standout choice for gardeners.

• 10 root crowns per bundle
• USDA zones 3-10
• Deep-burgundy colored spears.
• Has a 20% higher sugar content. Because of this extra sweetness, this vegetable is often eaten raw. Some upscale restaurants garnish salads with purple asparagus. When cooked, the sweetness gives this asparagus a mild, nutty flavor.
• The spears are generally larger and much more tender than its green counterpart. The vascular bundles have less lignin per spear which make the spears less stringy. This allows the cook to use the entire spear with little waste.

For more information, please enjoy our Growing Guide for planting and growing asparagus.

Note: Do not be alarmed if there is small amounts of bluish-white mold on your rootstock, this is absolutely normal. It occurs from the cold storage process used to keep the plants dormant. This mold can be wiped off and will not affect the health of the plant. However, if the plants are rotten and/or mushy, please give us a call.

Browse our collection of asparagus.

 

Growing Purple Asparagus: A Guide to Cultivating this Unique Variety

Purple asparagus is a captivating and exotic addition to any garden or culinary adventure. Its striking purple coloring sets it apart from the more common green and white asparagus varieties, making it not only a visual delight but also a delectable treat for the taste buds. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how to grow and care for purple asparagus, its unique characteristics, and even provide you with a delicious purple asparagus recipe to savor its exceptional flavor.

Purple asparagus (Asparagus officinalis var. purpurea) is a unique and visually stunning vegetable known for its distinctive deep purple hue. Unlike the more commonly found green and white asparagus varieties, the purple asparagus derives its striking color from the presence of anthocyanins, natural pigments that also impart antioxidant properties.

Planting Purple Asparagus

Growing purple asparagus requires some initial effort, but the rewards are well worth it. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

• Select the Right Location: Purple asparagus thrives in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. Choose a spot in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Prepare the Soil: Prepare the soil by adding organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility and drainage. Aim for a pH level between 6.5 and 7.0, slightly acidic to neutral.
• Choose Asparagus Crowns: Purchase high-quality purple asparagus crowns from a reputable nursery or garden center. It's essential to start with healthy, disease-free crowns for a successful harvest.
• Plant the Crowns: Dig trenches approximately 8-10 inches deep and 12-18 inches apart. Place the crowns in the trenches, spacing them 12-18 inches apart, and cover them with 2-3 inches of soil.
• Watering and Mulching: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season. Mulch the asparagus bed with straw or compost to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Fertilize Sparingly: Asparagus plants do not require excessive fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring when the shoots emerge.
• Support the Growth: Purple asparagus plants can grow tall and may need support to prevent bending or breaking. Use stakes or a trellis system to help the plants stand upright.

Caring for Purple Asparagus

Caring for purple asparagus is relatively straightforward but requires attention to detail:

• Weed Control: Regularly remove weeds from the asparagus bed to reduce competition for nutrients and water.
• Harvesting: Purple asparagus is typically ready for harvesting in the second or third year after planting. Harvest when the spears reach 6-8 inches in length by snapping them at ground level. Avoid over-harvesting to allow the plant to continue growing.
• Pruning: In late winter or early spring, prune the asparagus ferns down to ground level to prevent diseases and encourage healthy new growth.
• Pest and Disease Management: Keep an eye out for common asparagus pests such as asparagus beetles and aphids. Employ organic pest control methods or consult with a local gardening expert for advice.

Unique Characteristics of Purple Asparagus

Purple asparagus is not only known for its striking purple coloring but also for its distinctive flavor and texture. Here's what sets it apart:

• Color: The most obvious unique feature of purple asparagus is its vibrant purple hue, which adds a visually appealing touch to dishes.
• Flavor: Purple asparagus is typically milder and sweeter than green asparagus. It has a delicate, slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with various culinary preparations.
• Texture: The texture of purple asparagus is tender and succulent, making it a delightful addition to salads, stir-fries, and other dishes.
• Nutritional Benefits: Purple asparagus shares many of the same nutritional benefits as its green and white counterparts, such as being a good source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.

Purple Asparagus with Olive Oil and Lemon Zest

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch of fresh purple asparagus
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Zest of one lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash the purple asparagus spears and trim the tough ends.
3. Place the asparagus spears on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss the asparagus to coat evenly with the seasonings.
5. Roast the asparagus in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until they are tender but still slightly crisp.
6. Serve your purple asparagus with a drizzle of extra olive oil and additional lemon zest for a burst of fresh flavor.

Exploring Purple Asparagus at Farmers Markets

If you don't have the space or time to grow purple asparagus in your garden, you can still enjoy its unique flavor and beauty by visiting local farmers markets. Many farmers and vendors offer purple asparagus when it's in season. It's a great way to support local agriculture and discover new culinary delights.

Growing purple asparagus is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy the striking purple coloring, unique flavor, and health benefits of this remarkable vegetable. With proper care and attention, you can cultivate a bountiful harvest and savor its delicate taste in various culinary creations. Whether you grow it in your garden or explore it at farmers markets, purple asparagus is a delightful addition to any kitchen. So, why not embark on the journey of cultivating this exotic and vibrant vegetable?