Asparagus officinalis is a flowering plant species in the genus Asparagus from which the popular vegetable known as asparagus is obtained. It is native to most of Europe, northern Africa and western Asia. It is now also widely cultivated as a vegetable crop.

Asparagus costs a fortune at the store, but it's easy to grow. It makes a beautiful edible plant along fences. A little work and some patience will keep you supplied with beautiful asparagus for ten to fifteen years.

Preparation is the key when you're going to cook asparagus. There are several methods of cooking boiling, grilling, steaming, or roasting. The microwave is also a good option when cooking asparagus. Cut the asparagus into sections and you can use it in stir fries you can also blanch the asparagus and use it in vegetable dips.