Seasonal Guide for Artichokes & Asparagus
These two springtime heroes offer elegant flavour and visual appeal. Victorian-grown asparagus and artichokes hit their stride in September through November, making them perfect for seasonal spring menus or special events. Imported options are generally available throughout the year but prices can fluctuate dramatically.
Peak Season: September to December
Off Season: Imported or greenhouse-grown options available at a premium
Common & readily available varieties: Green Asparagus, Globe Artichokes
Specialty Varieties: White & Purple Asparagus, Baby Artichokes
Storage tips: Keep asparagus upright in a sealed container with a little water or wrapped in damp paper towel. Artichokes should be stored cold and used quickly once trimmed.
| ARTICHOKES & ASPARAGUS | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Globe Artichokes | 🟠 OK | 🟠 OK | 🟠 OK |
🟡 Good | 🟢 Best | 🟢 Best |
🟢 Best | 🟢 Best | 🟢 Best |
🟡 Good | 🟠 OK | 🟠 OK |
| Green Asparagus | 🔴 Poor | 🔴 Poor | 🟠 OK |
🟡 Good | 🟢 Best | 🟢 Best |
🟢 Best | 🟢 Best | 🟢 Best |
🟡 Good | 🟠 OK | 🔴 Poor |
| White Asparagus | 🔴 Poor | 🔴 Poor | 🟠 OK |
🟡 Good | 🟢 Best | 🟢 Best |
🟢 Best | 🟢 Best | 🟢 Best |
🟡 Good | 🟠 OK | 🔴 Poor |
| Purple Asparagus | 🔴 Poor | 🔴 Poor | 🟠 OK |
🟡 Good | 🟢 Best | 🟢 Best |
🟢 Best | 🟢 Best | 🟢 Best |
🟡 Good | 🟠 OK | 🔴 Poor |
🟢 Best Quality, Stable Price & Locally-Grown
Peak-season local produce at its freshest and most affordable. Excellent flavour, long shelf life, and reliable availability. Ideal for premium menus and consistent plating.
🟡 Good Quality, Variable Price
Often sourced from interstate. Still high quality, but pricing can shift depending on supply volumes and freight. A solid option with manageable cost.
🟠 OK - Variable Quality, Volatile Pricing
Typically freighted from distant states (QLD, WA or NT). Quality may be inconsistent, and pricing often fluctuates based on weather, fuel, and logistics. Use with caution in cost-sensitive menus.
🔴 Poor - Limited Supply, High Cost, and Imported
Availability is low or highly unpredictable. Often imported from overseas, resulting in shorter shelf life, lower flavour, and premium pricing. Suitable only for specialised or non-negotiable menu items.