What Is The Plural For Asparagus

Let’s talk about asparagus. Specifically, what do you call more than one stalk? It sounds like a trick question, right?

You might say “asparagus” again. Or maybe “asparaguses” (say that five times fast). Some folks even argue for “asparagi.” But which one is actually correct? And why does this humble green vegetable cause so much confusion?

The answer is delightfully weird. Let’s dive in.

The Short Answer: It’s a Mess

Technically, the most common plural in English is asparagus. Yes, the same word. Like “sheep” or “deer.”

But here’s the twist: people have been battling over this for centuries. Cookbooks, dictionaries, and food snobs all have different opinions. It’s like the Star Wars of vegetable linguistics.

Want to sound fancy? Say “asparagi.” Want to sound like a farmer? Stick with “asparagus spears.” And if you just want to be understood? Use “asparagus.”

The Latin Lie

Here’s where it gets juicy. The word comes from Latin. In ancient Latin, asparagus was a singular noun. Its plural was asparagi—no surprise there.

But English speakers did something sneaky. We started treating asparagus as a mass noun, like “water” or “sand.” You don’t say “I have three waters,” right? (Unless you’re ordering at a café.)

So, “I have three asparagus” feels natural. But it also feels wrong. Because you can count the spears. They’re right there on your plate, mocking you.

The Funny Middle Ground

Enter the word “asparaguses.” It’s clumsy, sure. But it’s technically valid if you follow the normal English rule of adding -es to words ending in -us.

Try saying it out loud: uh-SPAR-uh-gus-iz. Sounds like a sneeze. A very polite, posh sneeze.

Some dictionaries accept it. Others scoff. It’s the underdog of plurals—awkward but trying its best.

What is the Collective Noun for Asparagus? - All Collective Nouns

And then there’s “asparagi.” It’s elegant. It’s Italian-sounding. It makes you feel like you should be sipping wine in Tuscany. But purists argue: English isn’t Latin. Stop showing off.

The Real Winner: “Spears”

Here’s a secret chefs use. When in doubt, say “asparagus spears.” It’s clear. It’s visual. It sounds kind of badass, like you’re wielding tiny green lances.

“I grilled six spears of asparagus.” See? You avoided the whole debate. You’re a genius.

Plus, it’s fun. “Spear” makes the vegetable sound aggressive. As if it might fight back. (It won’t. But respect the spear.)

A History of Awkwardness

Fun fact: In the 17th century, people called it “sparrowgrass.” No joke. They thought that was the plural. Imagine asking for “three sparrowgrasses.” You’d get weird looks and possibly a bird.

Even Shakespeare used the word asparagus in a play. But he didn’t bother with the plural. Smart man. He knew better than to start an argument.

By the 1800s, fancy folks insisted on “asparagi.” Farmers just called them “stalks.” And nobody knew who was right. That’s still basically true today.

What About “Asparagii”?

Ah, the double-i ending. You’ll see “asparagii” sometimes. It’s wrong. So wrong. It’s like mixing mustard with chocolate. Don’t do it.

But people do it anyway. Why? Because it sounds smart. It’s the linguistic equivalent of wearing a monocle. You can, but should you?

What is the Plural of Asparagus: Asparagii? – A Sawyer's Daughter

Spoiler: no. Most botanists and dictionaries reject it. Stick with the basics.

The Verdict (Sort Of)

Here’s what you need to remember. You have three solid options:

1. “Asparagus” as both singular and plural. Safe, boring, correct.

2. “Asparagus spears” for clarity and style points.

3. “Asparaguses” if you’re feeling brave and don’t mind a mouthful.

Avoid “asparagii” unless you want to start a fight. And avoid “sparrowgrass” unless you’re in a time machine.

Why This Matters (Or Doesn’t)

Honestly? It’s just fun. Language is messy. Vegetables are weird. And asparagus—with its pointy tips and fancy history—is the perfect example.

Next time you’re at a dinner party, bring this up. Watch people’s faces. They’ll argue, laugh, or pretend to know. Either way, you’ll be the hero of the conversation.

Just don’t forget to pass the butter.