Allium ampeloprasum Wild leek (Alliaceae)

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Allium ampeloprasum
Wild leek
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The Allium ampeloprasum plant species is found in S. Europe to W. Asia. Possibly native in Britain in S.W. England and Wales[17]. It is a member of the Alliaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Wild leek.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Allium ampeloprasum
Common Name:  Wild leek
Family:  Alliaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  Although no individual reports regarding this species have been seen, there have been cases of poisoning caused by the consumption, in large quantities and by some mammals, of certain members of this genus. Dogs seem to be particularly susceptible[76].

Mature Height:  1.8   Mature Width:  0.1

Habitat:  Rocky places near the coast in S.W. England and Wales[17].

Edible Uses: Bulb - raw or cooked[2, 27, 61, 105]. The small bulbs can vary considerably in size from 2 - 6cm[200], they have a fairly strong leek to garlic flavour and are nice as a flavouring in cooked foods[K]. The bulbs of selected cultivars are very large with a mild garlic flavour[183]. Leaves - raw or cooked[2]. A pleasant mild to strong garlic flavour, they are available from late autumn to the spring though they can become rather tough and fibrous as they get older[K]. Flowers - raw. A similar flavour to the leaves but they have a somewhat dry texture and are best used as a flavouring in cooked foods[K]. The bulbils have a mild garlic flavour and make a nice flavouring in salads and cooked foods. Although produced abundantly, they are quite fiddly to use because they are small[K]. They can also be pickled[142].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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