Keeled garlic facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Keeled garlic |
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| Allium carinatum | |
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Species synonymy
Aglitheis carinata (L.) Raf.
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Allium carinatum, often called keeled garlic or witch's garlic, is a type of flowering plant. It grows from a bulb, much like an onion or regular garlic. This plant is part of the Amaryllidaceae family.
You can find keeled garlic growing naturally across many parts of central and southern Europe. It also grows in some areas of Turkey. People sometimes grow it in gardens because it's pretty. Its bulbs have a strong smell and taste, so they can be used to flavor food, just like other types of garlic.
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Plant Varieties
Within the Allium carinatum species, there are a few slightly different types. Scientists recognize two main varieties:
- Allium carinatum subsp. carinatum – This is the most common type, found in most places where the plant grows.
- Allium carinatum subsp. pulchellum – This variety is found mainly in central Europe and the Balkans.
What Does Keeled Garlic Look Like?
Allium carinatum grows from a small bulb. This bulb is usually less than 15 millimeters long. The plant has flat leaves that grow from the ground.
The main stem can grow quite tall, up to 60 centimeters (about 2 feet) high. At the top of the stem, you'll see a cluster of flowers. This cluster is called an umbel. The flowers are usually purple or reddish-purple. They hang downwards on long stalks, which makes them look like they are nodding.
Where Does Keeled Garlic Grow?
Keeled garlic is native to the Mediterranean Basin, which means it naturally grows in countries around the Mediterranean Sea. Its range stretches from Spain all the way to Turkey. It also grows further north in places like Sweden and the Baltic states.
Sometimes, this plant can spread to new areas and start growing there on its own. For example, it has become naturalized in the British Isles. This means it now grows wild there, even though it wasn't originally from that region.
Growing Keeled Garlic in Gardens
Some types of Allium carinatum are popular for planting in gardens. They are grown for their beautiful flowers.
For example, the variety A. carinatum subsp. pulchellum is well-liked by gardeners. There is also a special white-flowering version of this variety, called A. carinatum subsp. pulchellum f. album. Both of these have received an Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society. This award means they are excellent plants for gardens.
See also
In Spanish: Allium carinatum para niños
