Hard Neck Garlic Allium sativum var. ophioscorodon

Hardeck Garlic is a perennial bulb in the amaryllis family (Amaryllidaceae) producing a popular edible vegetable garden plant. It is closely related to onions, shallots and leeks. 

Within the Hardneck varieties, there are the ‘rocamboles’, whose cloves alternate large and small, and the ‘continental’ types, whose cloves are mostly uniform in size. Rocamboles are typically easier to peel and have the most pungent garlic flavor but do not store as long as continental types.

Separate individual cloves from the bulb and plant 2-3 inches deep and 6-8 inches apart. In NC plant from late Oct. to Nov. and possibly through Dec in the more southern areas for a May to June harvest time. It needs at least 4-6 weeks to get established before the ground freezes. Plant in loose fertile well-drained soil in full sun and mulch to help prevent weed competition. Cut back on watering before harvest time to prevent bulb rot. The flower stem (scape) should be removed before blooming and is edible raw or cooked.

Harvest garlic when about half of the leaves have started turning brown. Garlic needs to cure after digging in a warm dry place out of the sun. Once the leaves have completely dried you can remove the leaves, roots and outer wraps and store in a dry cool area but do not refrigerate.

Garlic is grown both commercially and in the home edible garden.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems. Bulb rot can occur in too wet soil. Bulb mites can occur.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Edibles, Bulbs, and Houseplants" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.   

More information on Allium sativum.