Wild Garlic (Allium ursinum)

Family: Alliaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (5/5)

Allium ursinum is a BULB growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf from February to June, in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from May to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Roots/Tubers, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

milder than garlic. — Leaves - raw or cooked.; Usually available from late January.; One report says that they have an overpowering garlic odour that dissipates on cooking, though our experience is that they are considerably milder than garlic.; The leaves make a very nice addition to salads, and are especially welcome as a vital and fresh green leaf in the middle of winter.

Habitat & North American Range

Damp soils in woods, copses, valleys and similar moist shady localities. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)