Slender false garlic

Nothoscordum gracile

Physical Characteristics

Nothoscordum gracile is a BULB growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by 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 cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

South America. A garden escape in south-eastern N. America and Britain.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Condiment Bulb - raw or cooked. A garlic substitute[2], it is used as a spice[105, 177, 183]. The bulb is about 15mm in diameter[270].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known