The Purple Passion Asparagus Asparagus officinalis 'Purple Passion' has deep burgundy tender spears.  The spears can measure up to 3/4 inches in diameter.  They are very tender with a mild and sweet taste some even consider somewhat nutty in flavor and some people will even eat them raw they are so tasty.  I have had that problem before, I can't get them to the kitchen before I eat a couple. 

Purple Passion is hardy from zone 3 to zone 7 and can grow from 6 to 10 feet in height and spread from 2 to 3 feet.  It does produce earlier than most other Asparagus plants.  It is perennial so will come back year after year.  Purple Passion is rust resistant as well as resistant to fusarium and root and crown rot.  It needs well-drained, moist soil and at least 8 hours a day of sunshine.  Asparagus is a very healthy vegetable and can produce up to 15 years with optimal growing conditions.