It is treated as a distinct species, Asparagus prostratus Dumort, by some authors. prostratus (Dumort.) Corb., distinguished by its low-growing, often prostrate stems growing to only 30–70 centimetres (12–28 in) high, and shorter cladodes 2–18 mm ( 3⁄ 32– 23⁄ 32 in) long. Plants native to the western coasts of Europe (from northern Spain to northwest Germany, north Ireland, and Great Britain) are treated as Asparagus officinalis subsp. The fruit is a small red berry 6–10 mm ( 1⁄ 4– 13⁄ 32 in) in diameter, which is toxic to humans. It is usually dioecious, with male and female flowers on separate plants, but sometimes hermaphrodite flowers are found. The flowers are bell-shaped, greenish-white to yellowish, 4.5–6.5 mm ( 3⁄ 16– 1⁄ 4 in) long, with six tepals partially fused together at the base they are produced singly or in clusters of two or three in the junctions of the branchlets. The root system, often referred to as a 'crown', is adventitious and the root type is fasciculated. The 'leaves' are in fact needle-like cladodes ( modified stems) in the axils of scale leaves they are 6–32 millimetres ( 1⁄ 4– 1 + 1⁄ 4 inches) long and 1 mm ( 1⁄ 32 in) broad, and clustered four to 15 together, in a rose-like shape. These are known for their effects on cell membranes and immune response.Asparagus is a herbaceous, perennial plant growing to 100–150 centimetres (40–60 inches) tall, with stout stems with much-branched, feathery foliage.

Asparagus also contains a group of phytonutrients called saponins that have both fat-soluble and water-soluble components.

Antioxidants and anti-inflammatories, which are found in great quantities in asparagus, are claimed to be associated with decreased risk of cancers.

It also helps flush out toxins in the kidneys and prevent kidney stones.

Kidney health: Asparagus can act as a natural diuretic, helping the body excrete excess salt and fluid, making it especially good for people suffering from edema (swelling) and high blood pressure.Fiber helps move food through the gut and provides relief from discomfort during the digestive process. Digestive health: Asparagus is known to help with digestion due to its high fiber content.Folate can decrease the risk of neural-tube defects in fetuses, so it’s important for pregnant women to consume enough on a daily basis. Pregnancy health: Asparagus is packed with folate.Asparagus' ability to improve insulin secretion and improve beta-cell function also helps lower the risk of type 2 diabetes.Therefore, asparagus' impressive anti-inflammatory properties and high levels of antioxidants can prevent these diseases. As with heart disease, the risk of type 2 diabetes increases with excessive inflammation and oxidative stress.Anti-aging benefits: The antioxidant glutathione is believed to slow the aging process and the folate in asparagus works with B12 to prevent cognitive decline.Asparagus has excellent anti-inflammatory effects and high levels of antioxidants, both of which may help reduce the risk of heart disease.

Asparagus has more than one gram of soluble fiber per cup, which lowers the risk of heart disease, and the amino acid asparagine helps the body flush out excess salt.High levels of vitamin B complex also help regulate homocysteine (amino acid), which is a risk factor in heart disease.Asparagus is extremely high in vitamin K, which helps with blood clotting.Health benefits of asparagus include the following: This succulent, savory vegetable contains a powerful blend of nutrients that help boost energy and cleanse the system. What are the health benefits of asparagus?

Calories in asparagus