UV-B-mediated flavonoid synthesis in white asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.)

► UV-B irradiation influenced the plant defence system in asparagus. ► Results revealed changes in phenolic profile as well as in PAL and POD activity. ► Plant response is likely to be more intense in young tissue. ► PAL and POD were mainly influenced by the adaptation time. ► Quercetin-4′-O-monoglucoside was dominantly affected with increasing UV-B dosage.