One of the largest 'garlic' varieties, each bulb is approximately 4" (10cm) inches across and a single clove can be as large as a whole bulb of ordinary garlic. It's closely related to the leek, but 'Elephant Garlic' has a far milder and sweeter flavour offering a wider range of culinary dishes to trial.
How to care for garlic Elephant:
Keep the soil around the plants weed free and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Elephant garlic produces flower stalks which should be removed, but they are edible and can be used in the same way as asparagus. To harvest, gently lift when the leaves start to yellow, and leave them on the surface of the soil (or in a bright shed) to ripen before storing them in a light, airy position, which is dry and frost free. Avoid washing the bulbs as this can cause rot. Trim any remaining roots and stalks back to around 2.5cm (1”). They should store for between 8 to 10 months.
Eventual height:
1.2m
Eventual spread:
0.5m
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost
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Pets: TOXIC if eaten; Humans: Skin irritant/allergen