Food for free
4th May 2024
Allium ursinum, wild garlic, is a very attractive plant with its cluster of white star-like flowers and lily-of-the-valley leaves. Also called ramsons, it is in full aroma for a couple of months each year. According to Richard Mabey the name of the town on the Isle of Man, Ramsey, as with others prefixed with ram, is derived from this common name, and many who attend the motorbike TT races on the island in May can’t shake off “their all-pervading ambience” (Flora Britannica). Ramsons prefer shady damp conditions under woodland. These pictures were taken along the River Twyver in Gloucester – an amazing display considering its suburban location literally minutes from Morrison’s supermarket.
Unlike common cultivated garlic, it’s the leaves that are eaten rather than the bulbs. The taste is more delicate too, similar to the flavour of chives. Wild garlic pesto is a great way to use up the bundles of wild garlic leaves, and Rachel Phipps’ recipe is a great starting point. You will need a blender or food processor to make this recipe. Go to: https://www.bbc.co.uk/food/wild_garlic