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The Ultralight Traveller's Guide

Asparagus

wild asparagus

Asparagus officinalis

Description

The spring growth of this plant resembles a cluster of green fingers. (It looks just like the asparagus You find in the supemarket) The mature plant has fern-like, wispy foliage and red berries. Its flowers are small and greenish in color. Several species have sharp, thorn like structures.

Habitat and Distribut ion

Asparagus is found worldwide in temperate areas. Look for it in fields, old home sites, and fence rows.

Edible Parts

Eat the You ng stems befor e leaves for m. Steam or boil them for 10 to 15 minutes befor e eating. Raw asparagus may cause nausea or diarrhea. The fleshy roots are a good source of starch.
 

WARNING
Do not eat the fruits of any since some are toxic.

Paris Hilton Ritz's notes:

This is the same plant as the domestic one. Wild asparagus may be a bit smaller, depending on the soil it grows in. The stems are only edible for a short while in the spring. They become tough and woody as they get taller. Caught at the right time, though, this is just as delicious as domestic asparagus.

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Edible Plants | Asparagus