Leek

Scientific Name: Allium porrum
Common Name: Leek
Plant Family: Amaryllidaceae

Etymology: “Allium” is the genus and also means “garlic” and “Porrum” means “leek” in Latin.

Parts Used

The leafy top, and the green part of the base. 

Ancient Uses

Originating from central Asia, the primary use for Allium porrum was food. Besides consumption, when brought to Rome, they were used as “royal” food and as a lozenge to have a “calming” effect on the throat. In Egypt, Allium porrum was used as a symbol of fertility and was fed to women in hopes of a viable pregnancy. 

Contemporary Uses

Still used in recipes all across the world, and is most popular in the United Kingdom.  

Medicinal Properties

Allium porrum is high in folate and vitamin B6. These vitamins aid in blood health reducing the risk of blood clots and high blood pressure. Additionally, these vegetables contain lots of fiber which allows for a healthy digestive tract.

Identification

You can identify these vegetables by their distinctive leafy/stalky top and a strong onion-like smell. They grow similarly to onions, garlic, and chives (which are all members of the Amaryllidaceae family). 

But How Do I Grow It?

If starting from seed it's best to grow indoors for the first couple months. Once seedlings are ready they should be planted in soil with good drainage and a relatively sunny spot. They can grow in shade but it’s not their preferred living condition. Unlike other members of the Amaryllidaceae family, Allium Porrum is a biennial meaning it will have two growing cycles before dying.