Ancient leek (Allium ampeloprasum 'Holmense') in P9 pot

Wild leek is a strong, hardy leek variety that originated in the wild and is known for its robust growth and full flavor. The thick, elongated stems and leaves are edible and impart a mild, sweet onion flavor to soups, stews, and stir-fries. Wild leek grows best in fertile, well-drained soil in a sunny location and can remain in the same spot for several years as a green manure or for occasional harvesting. The plant also attracts pollinators during flowering and is a valuable addition to the vegetable garden.

In summer, the above-ground portion of the plant dies back, and new bulbs develop around the original bulb (the mother bulb). In early August, dig up these bulbs and replant them in a row, just as you would with regular leeks (one bulb every 15 cm). You can eat the remaining bulbs; they have a mild flavor reminiscent of a mix of leek, spring onion, and garlic.

After planting, new leek plants will grow shortly afterward. You can harvest these before or just after winter. Always leave enough plants to form new bulbs for the following season.

Applications

• Cuisine: soups, stews, stir-fries and salads
• Ground cover: robust evergreen plant
• Biodiversity: flowering leek attracts pollinators

Important!
These are hardy but not evergreen plants. In winter, the above-ground parts die back and the plant goes dormant. Therefore, when you receive the plant, it may sometimes seem like you're receiving an empty pot or a dead plant. This is completely normal: the plant is still alive and safely underground in its pot. Give it a spot in your garden, and in spring it will naturally sprout again from the underground parts.

Collaboration between the Small Farm Foundation and Pickers
🌱 This product was selected by Hester from the De Kleine Boerderij foundation, a social food garden in Fochteloo where pesticide-free vegetables are grown for low-income households. People can harvest their own produce and learn about healthy eating, neighbors can connect, and vegetables are distributed through the local food bank and the Salvation Army. The garden also provides tools for making healthy, budget-friendly meals with these vegetables, and children in the garden learn about the origins of their food. For every order, we contribute €1 to the garden. You can read more about this initiative here .