the word sprouts seems to me to refer to alfalfa sprouts or (mung) bean sprouts...brussel sprouts would be specified by Brussel or Brussels

I often make a little "X" in them with a knife so they cook quicker.

great with Hollandaise sauce! (what's pancetta??)
oh i see it is Italian pork product like bacon but un-smoked

i sometimes see them for sale at a produce stand...on the stalk..
it is a brassica or Cole family plant...http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brussels_sprout

several thousand acres planted in coastal areas of San Mateo, Santa Cruz, and Monterey Counties of California, (according to Wiki.)
i find them in a large produce stand near Monterey...

are these connected with a holiday tradition in england?
(sort of like mushy peas?? --whatever that is...)