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Description
Allium ursinum – known as ramsons, buckrams, wild garlic, broad-leaved garlic, wood garlic, bear leek, or bear’s garlic , It grows in deciduous woodlands with moist soils, preferring slightly acidic conditions. In the British Isles, colonies are frequently associated with bluebells (Hyacinthoides non-scripta), especially in ancient woodland. It is considered to be an ancient woodland indicator species. The leaves of A. ursinum are edible; they can be used as salad, herb, boiled as a vegetable, in soup, or as an ingredient for a sauce that may be a substitute for pesto in lieu of basil. The stems are preserved by salting and eaten as a salad in Russia. A variety of Cornish Yarg cheese has a rind coated in wild garlic leaves.
Plant bulbs approx. 8cm (3-4 inches) deep in small clumps of 4 – 12. When the clumps become dense, lift and separate after flowering whilst still in leaf.
Allium ursinum, commonly known as ramsons or wild garlic, is a vital component of woodland ecosystems, offering numerous ecological benefits. Its flowers are an important nectar source for pollinators like bees and butterflies, which are essential for maintaining the health of these environments. The plant’s dense foliage serves as an effective ground cover, helping to suppress weed growth and retain soil moisture, which in turn prevents soil erosion and enhances the retention of organic matter.
In addition to its ecological benefits, wild garlic has been used traditionally in herbal medicine due to its antimicrobial properties and potential cardiovascular benefits. The plant’s strong aroma acts as a natural deterrent to pests, making it a useful companion plant in both gardens and woodlands. This combination of ecological and practical benefits makes Allium ursinum a valuable addition to various landscapes, supporting both biodiversity and garden health.
