Wild Leek (Allium tricoccum) | Prairie Restorations

Wild Leek

Allium tricoccum

Allium tricoccum, commonly known as Wild Leek or Ramp, is a perennial plant growing 6 to 12 inches tall. It has broad, smooth leaves that emerge in early spring and die back before the white, spherical flower clusters appear in early summer. Wild Leek is typically found in rich, moist deciduous forests with loamy soils. It has a long history of use as a spring vegetable and for medicinal purposes by Indigenous peoples and early settlers. It is valued for its early spring presence in woodlands, though sustainable harvesting is crucial due to its popularity.

Characteristics

Product Form	Plant
Type	Forb
Sun	Partial Sun, Shade
Soil	Clay, Loam
Moisture	Mesic, Wet
Average Max Height (inches)	12
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches)	10
Bloom month(s)	June, July
Bloom Color or Type	White
Dominance	Low

Range Maps

Sowing Information

Sow seed onto a firm, weed-free seedbed. Hand-broadcast seed making two perpendicular passes for even coverage. If planting a mix, broadcast the grass component first and lightly rake/drag it into the top 1/8–1/4" of soil. Next, broadcast wildflower/forb seed and press it into the soil surface (with a roller/cultipacker or the back of a rake) to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. After seeding, apply a very light layer of clean, seed-free straw (or other weed-free, site-appropriate mulch) to reduce erosion and retain moisture without smothering seedlings. A good rainfall or thorough watering will help settle seed and mulch and improve germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.