Allium tricoccum aka Ramp

Allium tricoccum is known as ramps or wild leek. This bulb-forming perennial belongs to the amaryllis family. It grows wild in eastern North America's damp, rich woods. Its range runs from Quebec south to Georgia, west to Minnesota. In North Carolina, it grows in the mountains. Ramps emerge early in spring, then lose their leaves. This short season suits woods beneath trees that shed leaves.

Plants reach 0.5–1 foot (0.15–0.30 metres) tall. They spread across 1–2 feet (0.30–0.61 metres). Each bulb forms one to three broad, green leaves. The leaves have smooth edges and no hairs. They reach 0.33–1 foot (0.10–0.30 metres) long. Their shape is oval, with a tapered tip. Smooth green stems often show red near the base. Small bulbs form beside older bulbs and build clumps.

White flowers grow in an umbel on a leafless stem. They appear as the leaves start to fade. Sources describe spring bloom, though leaves may last into early summer. Chicago Botanic Garden lists March to April for flowering. Each flower has three sepals and three slightly longer petals. Six stamens bear pale yellow anthers around a white style. The seed capsules hold round, black seeds. Seeds can take two years to sprout. The flowers draw pollinators to woodland and shade gardens.

Grow ramps in shade with moist soil and good drainage. Soil rich in decayed leaves suits their woodland roots. They accept both full shade and part shade. Trees give them spring sun before the canopy fills out. NC State also reports some tolerance of drier soil. Plant bulbs about 0.25 feet (0.08 metres) deep. Chicago Botanic Garden lists USDA zones 5–7. Ramps need little upkeep and grow at a moderate rate. Divide clumps to make more plants. Deer tend to leave them alone. Wet soil can cause bulb rot, and bulb mites occur.

Leaves, stems, and bulbs are edible and rich in vitamin C. Eat the leaves and bulbs raw or cooked. Raw flowers can serve as a salad garnish. Their onion-and-garlic taste can become strong as plants flower. Leave wild bulbs and one leaf intact when gathering. This helps keep the patch growing. Poisonous lily-of-the-valley and false hellebores can resemble ramps. Ramps suit edible gardens, woodland beds, and group plantings.