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What is a bunch of asparagus called?

Asparagus is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that is popular around the world. It has a unique shape, with long green spears growing from a central base. Asparagus is often sold bundled together in grocery stores and farmer’s markets. But what is the proper name for a bundle of asparagus?

The origin and history of asparagus

Asparagus has a long and storied history, dating back over 2,000 years. It is native to the eastern Mediterranean region and was first cultivated by the Ancient Greeks and Romans. Asparagus was revered by these civilizations not only for its unique flavor and texture, but also for its medicinal properties. The name “asparagus” comes from the Greek word “asparagos.”

Wild asparagus grows in dune areas near the sea and in rocky soils. The ancient Greeks and Romans would harvest wild asparagus by hand. Around 200 B.C., the Greeks began cultivating asparagus to have more reliable access to it. Roman emperors like Augustus were so fond of asparagus that special boats were dispatched to procure it.

Asparagus gained popularity across Europe over the following centuries. French kings Louis XIV and Louis XVI both adored it. King Louis XIV even established special greenhouses just for growing asparagus. Its popularity also spread to North America, brought over by European settlers.

How asparagus is harvested and bundled

Commercial asparagus is grown from crowns that are planted in sandy soil. It takes 2-3 years from the time of planting for asparagus crowns to mature and produce spears. A mature asparagus plant can produce spears for 15-20 years.

When the spears sprout in springtime and reach between 5-10 inches tall, they are hand-harvested by snapping or cutting the spears near the base. They are harvested repeatedly throughout the season as spears continue to emerge. An asparagus spear only has a short window of optimal tenderness after emerging before it gets tough and stringy.

After harvesting, the spears are washed, trimmed to uniform lengths, and bundled together with rubber bands or twist ties. A bunch usually contains about 0.5 lbs (around 20-30 spears) on average. The spears are upright and evenly aligned in the bunch.

Common names

There are several common names used to refer to a bundle or collection of asparagus spears:

  • A bunch of asparagus
  • A bundle of asparagus
  • A hand of asparagus
  • A clutch of asparagus

“Bunch” is probably the most frequently used term for a bundle in grocery stores and markets. You will often see signs referring to “asparagus bunches” or prices listed per bunch. “Bundle” is equally correct and interchangeable with bunch.

“Hand” and “clutch” are a bit more obscure, but do evoke imagery of grasping the asparagus spears together in your hand. Sometimes you may also see just “asparagus” on its own used to refer to a bundled bunch.

The anatomy of an asparagus bunch

When bundled, asparagus has a very distinctive appearance:

  • Upright position of the spears
  • Straight, erect stalks
  • Conical tips on the shoots
  • Uniform length and thickness of stalks
  • Spears clustered together
  • Round band or tie at the base

This tidy, orderly presentation is achieved through careful harvesting, sorting, trimming, and bundling. Some characteristics of asparagus bunches include:

  • 20-30 spears per bunch on average
  • Spears are 5-10 inches long generally
  • Diameter of spears is around 0.5-1 inch
  • Weight is approximately 0.5 lb for a bunch
  • Crisp, moist spears
  • Closed, compact tips
  • Fresh green color
  • Firm stalks
  • Tied at the base by a rubber band or twist tie

This uniform, neat presentation makes asparagus appealing and easy to transport. The upright base and straight stalks also help maintain freshness.

Common sizes of asparagus bunches

Asparagus bunches are available in a range of sizes to suit different purposes:

Bunch Size Number of Spears Bunch Weight
Small 10-15 Around 0.25 lb
Medium 20-30 Approximately 0.5 lb (most common retail size)
Large 40-60 0.75-1 lb
Jumbo 60-100 Over 1 lb

The medium 0.5 lb bunch is the most readily available size you’ll see in grocery stores. Farmer’s markets may offer more variety in bunch sizes. Jumbo bunches are not as common, but may be available at certain times of year when ample spears are being produced.

Pricing asparagus bunches

Asparagus is a premium springtime delicacy and is priced accordingly. Some key factors affecting asparagus bunch pricing:

  • Supply and demand – Peak season availability vs. off-season scarcity
  • Production costs – Manual harvest and special care required
  • Import costs – Whether domestically grown or imported internationally
  • Bunch size – Larger bunches command higher prices
  • Certified organic – Organic asparagus has higher production costs

Given these factors, a typical retail price range for asparagus bunches is:

Bunch Size Average Price Range
Small $2.49 – $3.99
Medium $3.99 – $6.99
Large $5.99 – $8.99
Jumbo $7.99 – $12.99

Organic bunches can run $1-2 higher across size ranges. Sale prices may be $1-2 lower when asparagus is in peak season.

Common uses for asparagus bunches

The slender, lengthy spears of asparagus lend themselves to a variety of cooking methods:

  • Roasting – High heat caramelizes natural sugars
  • Grilling – Adds charred flavor
  • Steaming – Preserves color and crunchiness
  • Sauteing – Quick stovetop preparation
  • Stir-frying – Incorporates into Asian dishes
  • Added to pastas – As a topping or ingredient
  • Salads – Raw or lightly steamed spears

A medium 0.5 lb asparagus bunch provides enough for 2-4 side dish portions. A pound of asparagus provides about four 4 oz servings.

Selecting and storing asparagus bunches

Look for the following when selecting fresh asparagus bunches:

  • Tight, compact tips on spears
  • Smooth green coloration
  • Sturdy, straight stalks
  • A healthy luster and sheen
  • No wilting or drying out
  • A fresh, clean fragrance

Avoid bunches with limp, bending stalks or split tips. Also be wary of any moisture or sliminess inside the bunch, which indicates advanced aging.

For storage:

  • Stand bunch upright in a glass with 1-2 inches of water
  • Cover ends loosely with plastic bag
  • Refrigerate for 3-5 days maximum

You can snap off spears as needed. Cutting the ends diagonally extends water uptake and freshness.

Conclusion

A bunch, bundle, or hand of asparagus contains multiple individual spears bundled together in an orderly presentation. The medium 0.5 lb bunch size is common, with about 20-30 spears per bunch. Prices range from $3.99-$6.99 normally. Careful selection, storage, and preparation will allow you to enjoy the delicate flavor and texture of fresh asparagus.