Allium ursinum
|
Ramsons, Wild garlic
|
Currently unavailable |
Type/Hardiness |
Herbaceous, Perennial, Hardy |
Flowering period |
Spring |
Height |
8-18in/20-45cm |
Light preference |
Shade/part shade |
Soil preference |
Moist |
Sowing time/depth |
Preferably autumn, barely cover |
|
The wide, bright green leaves of this pretty woodland plant have a mild garlic flavour and can be used in salads. In spring it produces attractive heads of small white flowers - which are also edible, as are the shoots, stems, roots and seeds! Ransoms require shady, moist conditions. |
Sowing and/or growing instructions |
Wild garlic can be very invasive, so unless there is plenty of space in which you're happy to see it, it is best grown in a container. It is said that if planted amongst cyclamen its tendency to spread is diminished - but this may be just an old wives' tale! Best sown outside in autumn (cold aids germination), covering with a fine sprinkling of soil or compost. Germination usually takes about 21 days. Provide shade and adequate moisture for best results. |