Leek, Elephant Garlic, Kurrat
allium ampeloprasum
Also known as: ["Leek","Elephant Garlic","Kurrat","Great-headed Garlic"]
Overview
A large, bulbous perennial plant in the Allium genus, known for its edible leaves and bulbs, which resemble a cross between garlic and leeks.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","culinary herb","disease resistant","cold hardy"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus: | Allium |
| Botanical Name: | Allium ampeloprasum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining loam with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; after flowering or when foliage dies back.
- Pruning Intensity: Light
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate pot for even growth; provide shade during extreme heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water at the base to avoid foliage disease; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure soil is loose; avoid waterlogging; enrich with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F); tolerates frost but not extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from extreme cold or heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; stop feeding in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or division of bulbs.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Plant seeds or divide bulbs.
- Water lightly.
- Provide warmth.
Best Time: Spring for seeds; late summer for bulb division.
Environment
Warm (65–70°F), bright indirect light, moderate humidity.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with sand or perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for bulb division; optional for seeds.
Timeline
Seeds: 2–3 months to germinate; bulbs: immediate growth after division.
Tools Needed
Trowel, sharp knife, pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds shallowly; ensure bulbs are planted at correct depth.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or damaged parts with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove spent flower stalks and yellow leaves.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Remove dead foliage; cut cleanly; sanitize tools.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late winter or early spring before active growth.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure 2–3 inches of space around bulbs.
Method
Gently lift bulbs; trim roots if necessary; replant in fresh soil with good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when bulbs become crowded.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; inspect roots; plant at correct depth; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; allow drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation of the root zone; avoid wetting leaves.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or sand to improve drainage; use perlite for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting in heat; stunted growth in cold; yellowing leaves in stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may become dormant in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from frost with row covers.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch; bulbs may fail to develop properly.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering in heat waves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during active growth.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid late-season fertilization.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are also susceptible to the toxic effects of Allium ampeloprasum, which can cause oxidative damage to red blood cells and lead to hemolytic anemia. The effects can be severe even with small amounts ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Allium ampeloprasum can lead to oxidative damage to red blood cells, potentially causing hemolytic anemia. The toxicity is more pronounced in dogs than in humans due to differences in metabolism.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAllium ampeloprasum, commonly known as wild leek or elephant garlic, contains sulfur compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress in humans. The toxicity is generally low, but ingestion in large quantities may lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Allium ampeloprasum the same as elephant garlic?
A: Yes, elephant garlic is a common name for Allium ampeloprasum.
Q: Can I eat the leaves of Allium ampeloprasum?
A: Yes, the leaves are edible and commonly used in cooking.
Q: Is this plant toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested in large quantities.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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