Ramp aka Wild Leeks (Allium tricoccum)

Ramps are a native plant found in the moist woodlands of eastern North America. Also called wild leeks and wild onions (Allium tricoccum), these plants were once only found in the wild.  Ramps have a flavor that blends spring onions and garlic and are delicious eaten on their own or added to dishes to bring sophisticated flavor to food. Their pinkish/white flower emerges as the leaves are fading and are very lovely

Due to their newfound fame amongst foragers and chefs alike, Ramps have become a specialty food item and are now highly sought after.  The demand for this cherished wild food is especially intense in the south where ramps have become endangered and have been added to the United Plant Saver's at-risk plant list.  However, they can be cultivated in a forest garden and actually have a much better germination rate when planted with a human touch.  A sure sign we have evolved with this plant ally.

Seeding Instructions

Habitat: rich deciduous hardwood forests, par1cularly woods dominated by mature sugar maples, prefers north and eastern slopes, spring seeps, moist depressions, drainage/run off areas

Conditions: hardy in Zones 3 to 7, full shade to semi shade, rich moist and loamy soil, well drained, acidic and calcium rich soil 

Seeding: Ramp seed requires 60 days warm conditons, followed by 90 days cold condi1ons and then 60 days warm conditions to germinate. If you live in a norther climate, then germination may take two seasons if the fall is not warm enough to provide 60 days of warm conditons prior to winter. Alternately, you can mimic these conditions by mixing with moist medium in a sealed plastc bag and leaving at room temp for 60 days, refrigerate for 90 days and then planting in spring. Sow in fall (or in spring if stratified), surface sow and cover with a deep layer of leaves.