Washington asparagus is produced on approximately 7,000 acres in the Columbia Basin, the Yakima Valley and the Walla Walla area. About 22 million pounds of asparagus are produced each year, bringing close to 28 million dollars to the state's economy.

Nutrition Information

1/2 Cup of Asparagus Boiled and Drained

• Total Carbs: 3.7 grams - 1%

• Dietary Fiber: 1.8 grams - 7%

• Total Fat: 0.2 grams - 0%

• Protein: 2.2 grams - 4%

Vitamins and Minerals

• Vitamin A: 18%

• Vitamin C: 12%

• Vitamin K: 57%

• Thiamin: 10%

• Folate: 34%

• Calcium: 2%

• Iron: 5%

• Potassium: 6%

Fun Facts! Did You Know…

• The word asparagus originates from the Greek language meaning "sprout" or "shoot"? Asparagus is a member of the lily family. The lily vegetable spread to all parts of the Mediterranean; from Egypt to Spain. France and England developed the taste for asparagus as a delicacy traced back to 16th century gastronomic literature. 

• Cultivation of asparagus began over 2,000 years ago in the eastern Mediterranean Region? Romans and Greeks alike ate asparagus for the rich flavor and medicinal qualities. 

• Asparagus has been around for more than 2,000 years? Asparagus has graced the gold and silver plates of royalty and nourished ordinary folks.

• Asparagus came to America with the early colonists? Cultivation spread west to include Michigan, California and Washington State.