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I've Found Ransoms!

Oh my goodness, I’m so excited!


I’ve found a small patch of ransoms close to home… after searching the area in hope for some time. I know of it growing in a few places, but am cautious of gathering this wild because I am not sure if it is a protected plant. There was a stretch on my commute home from work many years ago that had loads of them: in late spring the delicate fragrant smell would always make me feel hungry and grateful for our wonderful countryside.


Ransoms, or ‘wild garlic’ is a member of the allium (onion) family. It typically likes a shaded, woodland setting, exactly like the place where I’ve found it. I can’t tell you where, obviously, because I want it all for myself!


Ransoms come into season in late April to early May. It is easily recognised by its long broad leaves, star-shaped white flowers that bloom in round clusters and triangular shaped flower stalks. When crushed it releases a delicate aroma of garlic.


All parts of the plant are edible and may be eaten fresh or cooked. I have heard of folks adding it to soups, stuffings and even making a pesto out of it. I’m really looking forward to having the opportunity to experiment with it!


For now, I’ll keep an eye on it. It is a small patch and I am afraid that if I touch it, I may be overzealous and do it damage. Instead, I’ll bide my time, wait for the seeds to come, and gather some of those. Then I can try to get my own patch established at home too.

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