What is Allium ursinum or Wild Garlic?

Allium ursinum, also known as Wild Garlic, is an easy-to-grow and vigorous bulbous perennial with deep green elliptic leaves. Its 2 inch (5 cm) loose umbels feature up to 20 small star-shaped white flowers that rise atop leafless stems. A unique feature of this plant is its strong onion or garlic aroma when its foliage is bruised or crushed. Unlike other Alliums, it is also more tolerant of partial shade conditions.

Allium ursinum L. has a long history of being used for medicinal purposes. It is commonly used to help treat cardiovascular, respiratory, and digestive problems, as well as for sterilising wounds. It also contains higher levels of minerals, such as magnesium, than clove garlic which has earned it the nickname ‘magnesium king’ due to its purported anti-stress properties. Magnesium is thought to protect the circulatory system, particularly the heart.