Leek

Leeks have been grown since prehistoric times, prized by the ancient Greeks and Romans and thought to have originated in Central Asia. Romans are thought to have introduced them to the UK, where they have flourished, becoming the national emblem of Wales. Related to garlic, onions, shallots, and looking like very large scallions with a flavor similar to shallots but sweeter and more subtle. More delicate and sweeter than onions, leeks add their characteristic flavor without overpowering other flavors.

Easily grown from seed, they need loose and well-drained soil. To get a larger, longer blanched stem, transplant starts into holes up to their leaves.