Purple Passion Asparagus

‘Purple Passion’ is an open-pollinated asparagus cultivar selected for its large burgundy-purple edible spears, which are often sweeter and more tender than green types. The shoots turn green when cooked, and the mature plant develops the usual airy green asparagus fern after the harvest season. ## Cultivar traits [University of Minnesota Extension](https://extension.umn.edu/garden-and-home/yard-and-garden/gardening-in-minnesota/growing-asparagus) lists Purple Passion as a purple, open-pollinated variety. The [Ohio State University replicated cultivar evaluation](https://vegnet.osu.edu/sites/vegnet/files/imce/Asparagus%20trial.pdf) describes it as a selection from Violeta d’Albenga, with burgundy spears, large diameter, and lower yields than some other cultivars; the purple pigment disappears with cooking. [University of Maine Cooperative Extension](https://extension.umaine.edu/publications/2071e/) also reports purple-colored spears that become green when cooked and notes that yields are lower than male hybrids. ## Growing and harvest Plant crowns in a sunny, fertile, well-drained bed where the perennial roots can remain undisturbed. Give new crowns time to establish, and once harvest begins, end cutting in time for the remaining shoots to form ferns. This foliage replenishes the underground crown for next year’s crop. Purple Passion is open-pollinated and produces female plants as well as male plants; berries and volunteer seedlings may occur. Mature size depends on the age of the planting and how long spears are harvested. ## Maintenance Keep the bed weeded and evenly moist while crowns establish and during fern growth. Avoid deep cultivation near the roots. After harvest, allow the ferns to remain until they yellow and dry, then cut them back before spring growth begins.