Female asparagus plant berries

Male vs. Female Asparagus Plants: What’s the Difference

ByStephen Albert

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Asparagus is a perennial crop that produces for decades, but not all plants are created equal. Understanding the difference between male and female asparagus plants helps gardeners choose varieties for bigger harvests and easier maintenance. After more than 30 years of growing asparagus in raised beds, I’ve seen how plant sex directly affects spear size, yield, and long-term productivity.

How to Tell Male from Female Plants

  • Male Plants: Produce no berries. They put more energy into spear growth, yielding more and thicker spears.
  • Female Plants: Develop small red berries after flowering. These berries contain seeds, so females direct energy toward reproduction rather than spear production.

Advantages of Male Asparagus

  • Higher Yields: More spears per crown.
  • Thicker Spears: Male plants channel energy into spear growth, ideal for market and home harvest.
  • Less Weeding: No self-seeding berries means fewer volunteer seedlings competing for space.
  • Longer Bed Life: Males maintain vigor for many years without the energy drain of seed production.

Advantages of Female Asparagus

  • Berry Production: Attractive red berries add ornamental interest in fall.
  • Seed Saving: If you want to start new plants from seed, females provide a natural source.

Choosing Varieties

Modern hybrid varieties such as ‘Jersey Knight,’ ‘Jersey Giant,’ and ‘Jersey Supreme’ are predominantly male and bred for high yields. Heirloom types like ‘Mary Washington’ contain both male and female plants, giving a mix of berries and spears.

My Experience and Key Takeaways

In my California garden, all-male hybrids consistently produce larger, more plentiful spears, requiring less maintenance. However, I keep a few female plants for their attractive berries and occasional seed propagation. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize maximum harvest or ornamental appeal.

Asparagus Growing Hub

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Stephen Albert is a horticulturist, master gardener, and certified nurseryman who has taught at the University of California for more than 25 years. He holds graduate degrees from the University of California and the University of Iowa. His books include Vegetable Garden Grower’s Guide, Vegetable Garden Almanac & Planner, Tomato Grower’s Answer Book, and Kitchen Garden Grower’s Guide. His Vegetable Garden Grower’s Masterclass is available online. Harvesttotable.com has more than 10 million visitors each year.

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