Agricultural Information:

Plant Family: Asparagaceae
Scientific name: Asparagus officinalis

Asparagus is an herbaceous, perennial plant native to southern Europe and the Crimea. Plants can grow to a height of 100–150 centimeters (3–5 feet) with stout stems and feathery foliage. The spears are straight, tender, and glossy, with tightly closed, compact tips.

Asparagus plants must first establish a strong underground crown before they can produce a reliable harvest. When grown from seed, this process takes about three years. During this time, the plants direct their energy into developing the crown, which will later support the production of more abundant spears in subsequent seasons.

Halachic Information:

Kilei zera’im & kilei hakerem*: Parsley is classified as a vegetable. Therefore, it should not be planted near other annuals or a grapevine.

*Kilei zera’im & kilei hakerem (interplanting – annuals & grapevines) generally do not apply outside of the land of Israel; the following laws apply only within the land of Israel.

Information about plants as they relate to torah and mitzvot has been generously provided by Mercaz Torah VeHa’aretz Institute.