White Asparagus of Bassano (Bassano White Asparagus)

Bassano White Asparagus (Original name: Asparago Bianco di Bassano) is a variety of asparagus grown exclusively in the Bassano del Grappa region.

Product Characteristics

Bassano White Asparagus must meet specific aesthetic and structural criteria. Its defining characteristic is that the turions are entirely white. Slight pinkish or rust-like discoloration on the bracts and base is acceptable, provided it does not extend to the apical portions (first 3 cm). The asparagus must be straight, firm, closed-tipped, free of hollows, and without skin. The product must also appear soft, fresh, and aromatic, free from foreign tastes or odors, and must be healthy and clean. Its diameter must not be less than 11 mm, and its length must range between 18 and 22 cm depending on diameter.

Production Area

The cultivation of this asparagus is strictly limited to a geographically defined area as specified in the production regulations. The production, conditioning, and packaging zone for Bassano White Asparagus includes the territories of the municipalities of Bassano del Grappa, Cartigliano, Cassola, Mussolente, Pove del Grappa, Romano D'Ezzelino, Rosà, Rossano Veneto, Tezze sul Brenta, and Marostica, all within the boundaries of the Vicenza province. This area is characterized by alluvial soils located in the Valsugana region traversed by the Brenta River.

Bassano White Asparagus (Generated by Artificial Intelligence.)

Cultivation Techniques

Cultivation methods are governed by rules designed to preserve the product’s typical characteristics. The soil pH must be between 5.5 and 7.5, and soil analysis must be conducted prior to new planting. Only local ecotypes may be used for planting. Planting must occur in March or April for roots (zampe) and no later than June for seedlings. Replanting asparagus on the same soil is permitted only after a minimum of four years. Annual maximum limits have been established for the primary nutrients (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) applied during production years. The harvesting period normally runs from 1 March to 15 June.

Packaging and Labeling

To preserve the freshness of the asparagus and ensure traceability, conditioning and packaging must take place within the designated production area. Turions are traditionally bundled using willow twigs known as "Stroppa" and sold in bunches weighing between 0.5 kg and 4 kg. Each bunch must bear a label indicating the DOP designation and a progressive identification number for traceability. The outer packaging must clearly display the mandatory inscription "ASPARAGO BIANCO DI BASSANO - D.O.P.", the producer’s name, the packer’s title and address, the packaging date, and commercial specifications (quality category, size, number of bunches, and average weight). The product’s logo is a green and red circular emblem featuring a stylized drawing of the Palladio Wooden Bridge in Bassano del Grappa.