Wood Leek, Ramp

Allium tricoccum

Physical Characteristics

Allium tricoccum is a BULB growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf from March to June, in flower from June 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 and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Quebec, south to Virginia and Iowa.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Root Edible Uses: Bulb - raw or cooked[46, 61, 159]. An early Spring vegetables. Used mainly as a flavouring in salads and savoury dishes[238]. This is one of the best N. American wild species for sweetness and flavour[95]. A mild sweet flavour, resembling leeks[183]. The bulb is rather small, it is up to 12mm wide and 50mm tall[235] and is produced in clusters on a rhizome[200]. Leaves - raw or cooked[62]. The unfolding leaves in spring have a mild sweet flavour, resembling leeks[183]. Flowers - raw. Used as a garnish on salads. A hot onion flavour[K].

Medicinal Uses

Emetic This species probably has most of the medicinal virtues of garlic (Allium sativum) but in a milder form[222, 238]. Traditionally the leaves were used in the treatment of colds and croup, and also as a spring tonic[222, 238]. The warm juice of the leaves and bulb was used externally in the treatment of earaches[222, 238]. A strong decoction of the root is emetic[222].

Known Hazards

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