Asparagus

Asparagus is a perennial flowering plant species in the genus Asparagus, native to most of Europe, northern Africa and western Asia. It was traditionally known as Asparagus officinalis, but the classification has more recently been changed to Asparagus acutifolius. The young shoots are commonly known as sparrows or sparrow grass, and are used as a spring vegetable. In Hebrew, asparagus is known as Shibolut (שיבולת). In French, it is called asperge, while in Spanish, it is referred to as espárrago. The plant has been cultivated for over 2,500 years and was prized by ancient Greeks and Romans for its unique flavor and purported medicinal properties. Asparagus is a good source of folate, iron, and fiber, and contains high levels of antioxidants. It is typically prepared by steaming, grilling, or stir-frying, and is often served as a side dish. The plant has a distinctive diuretic property, which can result in a noticeable odor in urine after consumption, a phenomenon known as asparagus pee.