લીલું લસણ

Allium sativum

Green Garlic

Native Naturalised

A bulb-forming herb with flat, narrow leaves and underground cloves, harvested young for green garlic.

The plant

Habit Vegetables

Origin Native, Naturalised

Flowering Winter

Edible Yes

Growing it

Sun Full sun

Water Steady moisture

Drainage Must not sit wet

Life it supports

If allowed to develop, flowers can provide resources to insects; mature bulbs are generally harvested before flowering.

How to grow it

Plant healthy garlic cloves 2-3cm deep with the pointed end facing up, spaced about 8-10cm apart.
In Ahmedabad, plant during the cooler season, roughly October-December.
Give it full sun and keep the soil lightly moist.
For green garlic, harvest young plants after several weeks, once the stems are pencil-thick; leave them longer in the ground if you want fully mature bulbs instead.

The story

A seasonal winter ingredient strongly associated with western Indian cuisine, especially in Gujarat.

What it is used for

Young leaves and immature bulbs are used fresh in chutneys, curries, thepla, stir-fries, and seasonal dishes.

These uses are documented for information only and are not medical advice. Always verify the species and the plant part before use.

Where it is found

Cultivated widely in India; Gujarat is a major garlic-growing state.

Sources