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Amaryllidaceae
Alpine Leek
Allium victorialis
Victory and protection.
- Family
- Amaryllidaceae
- Genus
- Allium
- Native to
- Europe, Asia
- Bloom season
- Summer
- Type
- bulbous perennial
- Height
- 1-2 ft
- Sunlight
- part shade to full sun
- Soil
- Rich, moist, well-drained soil
- Water
- moderate
- Hardiness
- 4-8
- Lifespan
- perennial
Did you know
- The species name 'victorialis' comes from its historical use as a protective charm; soldiers carried the bulbs believing they brought victory in battle.
- In Japan, it is called 'gyoja-ninniku' (monk's garlic) and is a prized wild vegetable harvested in mountain forests each spring.
- The bulb is wrapped in a dense net of fibers from old leaf bases, which provides insulation against alpine cold.
- Alpine Leek has a milder, more nuanced garlic flavor than common garlic and is considered a delicacy in several cuisines.
- It was so heavily collected for food and medicine in some areas that it has become rare and is now protected in several European countries.
Color meanings
0
triumph
1
safeguarding