TARTARIAN GARLIC SEEDS

Allium ramosum

ORGANIC

The huge genus of Allium can be quite a chore to research. Several species are very similar to one another and the nomenclature so confused as to make the task seem for naught. The species A. ramosum and A. tuberosum are often mistaken for one another in garden literature. Additionally, A. ramosum was historically classified as both A. odorum and A. tartaricum. The whole thing is made even more confusing when we consider the fact that some strains of A. tuberosum have fragrant flowers, while others do not, making the fragrant strain seem perhaps to be a different species, and why not A. ramosum, which is so rarely grown that few would know the difference.

These seeds will produce plants that are indeed similar in stature and flower color to Garlic Chives. Tartarian Garlic is distinguished by an earlier bloom, hollow stems, and by a much more respectful habit: it will not spread aggressively like Garlic Chives. It is an elegant and refined Allium. For this reason it is much more suitable for the ornamental border and small garden or container.

Tartarian Garlic is, as you would suspect, native to Asia. It prefers to grow in moist soils in full sun. It makes a lovely container specimen. It is speculated that this species was selected long ago for the purpose of large scale cultivation and may qualify as an agricultural relic.

Start seeds indoors: sow seeds just below the surface of moist soil, pressing to keep seed snug; mist; cover with plastic; kept warm (70F) and moist in bright light seeds will germinate in a week or two. Transplant seedlings to individual cells or containers to grow on in bright light at cool room temperature. Transplant to moist garden soil in full sun once well-rooted. Water regularly until established.

Potted plants should be kept in ceramic containers and watered frequently.

All aerial portions of Tartarian Garlic are edible and delicious. Fragrant flowers are attractive to pollinators and are suitable for cutting. Rare and highly recommended.

Packet contains at least 50 seeds.