UC 157 F2 Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) is one of the most planted market varieties of asparagus. Developed in 1978 at the University of California at Riverside, this hybrid can be harvested longer in higher temperatures than other varieties. Tight and uniform green spears with a compact head and closed tip, it will have a purple coloration that distinguishes it from other varieties. Tolerant to Rust and Fusarium and free of Asparagus Latent Virus 2. Will grow as a perennial in zones 2-7. When grown from seed, first cutting can begin in year 3. Once established as a perennial, the plant can last 10 years or more, so it's well worth the wait