Ramson - Allium ursinum (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Ramson

Also known as: Wood garlic, Broad-leaved garlic

Ramson (Allium ursinum) is a perennial flowering plant. It is related to garlic and wild onion, sometimes earning it the nickname, "wild garlic." Collecting this plant is not recommended, however, because it resembles several poisonous wild plants. Ramson blooms during the spring and early summer, sprouting forth with white, star-shaped flowers. It can grow 15 to 30 cm tall and prefers damp, shady soil. Wild bears and boars enjoy eating the bulbs.

Scientific classification

Species

Ramson (Allium ursinum)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Early summer, Late winter

Bloom Time

Late spring

Harvest Time

20 cm to 30 cm

Plant Height

15 cm to 30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

1.6 cm to 2 cm

Flower Size

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Ramson

Culture

Garden Use

Ramson prefers conditions similar to those found in light deciduous forests. Thus, it is ideal for planting in woodland gardens and food forests. In time, it can create an edible, flowering seasonal groundcover with a slight garlic fragrance that comes back year after year.

Interesting Facts

Ramson has a similar appearance to many other bulb plants, such as lily in the valley, autumn crocus, adder's root, Indian poke, and white hellbore. Unfortunately, all these others are poisonous, so gatherers must take extreme care before ingesting any plant they presume to be ramson. People in Europe are routinely hospitalized for misidentifying these plants.

Name Story

Bear's garlic: The genus name, allium, comes from a Latin word for "garlic," while the species name, ursinum, comes from the Latin for "bear" and refers to bears' apparent love of the bulbs. The plant is sometimes called Wild Garlic and sometimes Bear Garlic, for the same reason.

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Toxicity

Ramson poses a mild toxicity risk to both cats and dogs. Ingesting any part of ramson can lead to symptoms such as gastrointestinal upset or physical discomfort. Immediate veterinary care is necessary if poisoning is suspected to efficiently manage the symptoms and ensure the pet's health and safety.

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Care Guide for Ramson

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Ramson thrives in damp woodlands, preferring consistent moisture and weekly watering. While it tolerates brief dryness, it's typically cultivated outdoors, so irrigation should align with rainfall patterns to mimic its natural cooler, moist habitat.

Fertilize: For optimal growth and flowering, ramson requires balanced nutrition fertilizers applied biannually in spring and autumn. Over-fertilization can harm, so use a light hand and adjust quantities seasonally to ensure ramson's health without risking root burn.

Pruning: Ramson features broad leaves and white flowers, benefiting from early to late spring pruning. Remove yellowing leaves and cut back flower stalks post-bloom to enhance growth and health. Pruning improves air circulation, reduces fungal risk, and enhances the plant's culinary and ornamental value.

Propagation: This perennial herb, ramson, prefers shady woodlands and has a strong garlic scent. Propagate by dividing bulbs post-flowering, ensuring sections have roots. Plant divisions at the same depth in moisture-retentive soil, spaced adequately to promote growth and avoid overcrowding.

Repotting: Ramson requires excellent drainage in pots to thrive, preventing waterlogging and ensuring healthy root development.

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