Description

Wild Garlic

Wild Garlic (Allium ursinum) or also known as ransoms is a bulbous plant with stunning clusters of star-like white flowers on long green stems, and usually flowers during spring. The leaves grow from the base and are a grey-green colour with a narrow oval shape. Furthermore, it usually grows to around 40 cm / 16 inches in height. The plants rarely have any problems with pests and therefore make an ideal plant for inexperienced gardeners.

It is a valuable source of nectar for early pollinators. It attracts many amazing insects, for example, hover flies, butterflies and longhorn beetles.

Also, it is often seen growing in clumps in wooded areas, particularly ancient woodland. It is sometimes seen in hedgerows or scrubland.

An easy plant to care for which prefers shady, damp conditions.

Best planted in locations where you are likely to brush past it, because when the plant is brushed by legs, it produces the lovely mild aroma of garlic.

• Bee friendly flowers.
• Great for all pollinators.
• Source of nectar.
• British native plant.
• Easy to care for.
• Hardy perennial.
• Perfect for shady parts of the garden.
• Flowers, April to May.
• Thrives in shady conditions.

Foragers may often look for wild garlic to use in foods, such as pesto. Every part of wild garlic is edible. However, it is advisable to be careful when foraging because many plants used for food are also similar to poisonous plants.

After flowering, the wild garlic will die back. This is perfectly normal. However, it will lie dormant until early spring, when you will notice the new growth appearing.

Available to buy from March to June as live plants.

Seeds are often available at other times of the year.

When sowing the seeds, it will take about 2–3 years before the plants flower.

Sow seeds in trays as soon as possible after arrival. Sprinkle a little soil over the seeds and do not over-water, maintain a damp or moist soil. The seeds will germinate in spring or earlier in a greenhouse.

Please note; we collect and clean the seeds by hand from our own stock of plants.