Both Asparagus officinalis and Asparagus prostratus (A.prostratus is debated asa sub species) are edible being of similar ilk to the stuff you grow in the garden. HOWEVER, this species in the wild is endangered and should not be harvested.
Asparagus is edible but on the endangered list, so don’t go picking this.
Red berries are produced in the autumn and these are considered toxic.
The young shoots (spears) are highly prized for their flavor. Garden grown Asparagus is harvested in spring whilst the spears are young and tender.
Asparagus can be found throughout the spring and summer months. Spring is the time to harvest (only the stuff in your garden), whilst the red berries produced in the autumn are toxic.
Asparagus officinalis prefers sunny locations with well-drained, sandy or loamy soils. It thrives in coastal areas and disturbed grounds but is rare in truly wild forms in the UK.
