Three-cornered leek
allium triquetrum
Also known as: ["Three-cornered garlic","Anglepod"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial herbaceous plant native to the Mediterranean region, known for its distinctive three-cornered stems and small, white, bell-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus: | Allium |
| Botanical Name: | Allium triquetrum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or naturalized areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering; occasional tidying of dead foliage in late winter.
- Pruning Intensity: Light
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight or bright indirect light); tolerates full sun in cooler climates but prefers afternoon shade in hot regions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching; in hot climates, provide shade during peak afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyEasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh afternoon sun in warm regions; rotate pots for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 7–10; prefers cool temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); tolerates mild frosts but may struggle in extreme heat.
Protect from extreme heat; ensure winter drainage; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season, none required otherwise
Fertilize sparingly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; stop feeding before dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs; seed propagation is possible but slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide bulbs when dormant.
- Replant immediately at the correct depth.
- Water lightly until established.
Best Time: Divide bulbs in late summer after foliage dies back; sow seeds in fall for spring germination.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions for seeds; bulbs prefer cool temperatures and good drainage.
Medium
Well-draining bulb mix or sandy loam; for seeds, use a standard seed-starting mix.
Hormone
Not required for bulb division; optional for seeds to encourage germination.
Timeline
Bulbs establish quickly in the same season; seeds may take 1–2 years to flower.
Tools Needed
Garden trowel, sharp knife, bulb separator.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years to prevent overcrowding; store bulbs in a cool, dry place if not planting immediately.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off flower stalks at the base; remove yellowed or dead leaves.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove spent flower stalks to tidy appearance and prevent self-seeding if desired.
Tools
Hand pruners or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Remove spent flowers; cut back dead foliage; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer after foliage dies back.
Pot Size
Use the same pot size or one size larger if significantly overcrowded.
Method
Gently lift bulbs, separate overcrowded ones, replant at the same depth in fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Not typically required unless bulbs become overcrowded in containers; repot every 3–4 years.
Checklist
Check for overcrowding; refresh soil; replant at correct depth; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; ensure water penetrates deeply to encourage deep roots; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to minimize fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth in spring; reduce frequency in summer dormancy; avoid watering in winter unless soil is exceptionally dry.
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf burn in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold or frost.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt or turn yellow; growth slows or halts; bulbs may rot if soil remains waterlogged in cold.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil to prevent bulb rot; mulch lightly in winter in colder zones; protect from extreme frost if possible.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or turn brown; flowering may be reduced; bulbs may struggle to store energy for next season.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; water deeply but infrequently to avoid stress; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as growth begins; avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall to prevent soft growth vulnerable to winter damage.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the sulfur compounds in Allium triquetrum, which can cause severe hemolytic anemia and gastrointestinal distress. The plant's toxicity can lead to serious health complications in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, Allium triquetrum can cause oxidative damage to red blood cells, leading to hemolytic anemia. The plant's sulfur compounds are particularly harmful to canines, causing gastrointestinal upset and potential kidney damage.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAllium triquetrum contains compounds such as thiosulfates and disulfides, which can cause oxidative damage to red blood cells, leading to hemolytic anemia. The plant's toxicity is primarily due to its sulfur-containing compounds, which are similar to those found in onions and garlic.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Allium triquetrum edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and bulbs are edible but should be consumed in moderation due to mild toxicity.
Q: Why are the leaves turning yellow?
A: Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiency.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its fragrant flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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