Allium tricoccum also known as Ramps
Ramps are an early spring vegetable of the onion family. They have a strong garlic odor and pronounced onion flavor. The mountain folk of Appalachia have long celebrated spring with the arrival of the ramp, believing it to have great power as a tonic to ward off many ailments of winter. Indeed, ramp's vitamin and mineral content did bolster the health of people who went without many green vegetables during the winter. These delicious greens can be pulled straight out of the ground and nibbled on by those with a passion for strong tastes. Chopped they may be used in various cuisines. Excellent paired with eggs or in stir fries, many people develop a passionate love of these vegetables after being introduced to their robust flavor. Ramps grow wild all over the United States and a patch can be introduced to your backyard by transplanting a clump to fill in some of the shady spaces. When picking out your space, look for dappled light or shade and plant in a wood chip rich area. Recently, the Carondelet Urban Farm went on a field trip to Macoupin County, Illinois to dig bushels of ramps. It was an exciting and taste filled day. We have had some discussion of what we actually dug up and are awaiting expert opinion on what we brought home to transplant. Ramps are a great plant to tuck in your landscape and nibble on in the spring of the year.
Suppliers:
It's important that the above-mentioned three Suppliers be given credit for their part of the picture. I'm learning how challenging it is to grow food. Finding suppliers isn't easy. Many growers can be found on www.localharvest.org, but not all who produce food have listed their info online.
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