ExplorePlants

Sand Leek

Allium scorodoprasum

The Sand Leek is a tasty plant that grows in sandy places. It has long, green leaves and a mild onion flavor, making it a fun addition to meals!

Habitat: Coastal areas

Appearance

The Sand Leek is a tall, slender plant with grass-like leaves and a globe-shaped cluster of small, bell-shaped flowers. These purplish-pink blooms are often mixed with tiny green bulbils, making its flower head distinct.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassLiliopsidaOrderAsparagalesFamilyAmaryllidaceaeGenusAllium
Sand Leek
aromatic trait badgeflowering trait badgegrasslike trait badgeedible trait badge
Sand Leek

Category

Plants

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

Be the first to snap!

Interesting facts

Instead of just seeds, this plant often grows tiny edible mini-bulbs right on its flower stalk!

Its Latin name, *scorodoprasum*, means 'garlic-leek' because of its unique flavor!

People have enjoyed eating Sand Leeks for centuries, even in ancient times!

The Sand Leek is sometimes called 'Serpent Garlic' because its flower stalks can twist and turn!

Special abilities

Ability

Bulbil Factory

Sand Leek can grow tiny baby bulbs (bulbils) right in its flower head, allowing it to easily make new plants without seeds!

Ability

Stinky Shield

This plant has a powerful garlicky scent from its leaves and bulbs that helps deter hungry animals from eating it.

Ability

Sand Survivor

Sand Leek has special roots and bulbs that help it thrive in dry, sandy soils where many other plants struggle.

Measurements & details

Height
30-90 cm
Flower Size
0.3-0.4 cm
Bloom Season
Summer
Edible
Yes
Toxicity
None
Lifecycle
Perennial
Pollination Method
Insect

Ecological connections

pollinates

European Honey Bee

Apis mellifera

Collects nectar and pollen from flowers.

pollinates

Painted Lady

Vanessa cardui

Visits flowers for nectar, spreading pollen.

eats

Onion Maggot

Delia antiqua

Larvae feed on the underground bulbs.

parasitizes

Leek Rust

Puccinia allii

Fungus causes reddish spots on its leaves.

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always ask an adult before picking or eating any plants.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is Sand Leek?

30-90 cm

How big are the flowers on Sand Leek?

0.3-0.4 cm

When does Sand Leek bloom?

Summer

Is Sand Leek edible?

Yes

Is Sand Leek toxic?

None

What is Sand Leek's lifecycle?

Perennial

How is Sand Leek pollinated?

Insect

Where is Sand Leek usually found?

Coastal areas

Snap Map

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