While the retailers are locked in a PR war over the first arrivals of UK asparagus, one producer is hoping to generate similar excitement with sea asparagus.

The vegetable, otherwise known as Salicornia, is the latest product being developed by Israeli exporter Carmel.

The sea asparagus is being produced at a research centre in Kedesh Barnea, at the top of the Negev in Israel.

A spokesman for Carmel said: “The water source in Israel is very suitable for this plant in this region as it has a high salt content. Its relative, Samphire is well known in the UK where it grows along the Norfolk coast in the salt marshes.”

The produce is described as a succulent, crunchy vegetable which grows as a thick matt. It can be packaged loose in one kilogramme cartons or pre-packed in punnets,

Carmel said initial production capacity is approximately 120kg a week, but the company plans to increase that to 300kg and said it has huge potential to increase it further.

The spokesman added: “This product is very versatile and can be eaten mixed with a salad, stir fried, but is an ideal accompaniment when served with steamed fish.”

Meanwhile, on the more traditional asparagus, both Tesco and Sainsbury’s announced last week, they were the first to get UK produce to shelf.

However, both retailers found themselves pipped to the post as Marks & Spencer revealed it had been stocking asparagus since March 30

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