Leek (Allium porrum L.)

Early-ripening summer leeks	Frost-resistant winter leeks

Source: Bock D., MPI Köln

Distribution, Yield, Use:

• Distribution:
  The leek is very adaptable and is grown almost world-wide. Limited climatic requirements, does not require shade; prefers damp, humus- rich loamy soil.
• Yield:
  200 - 400 dt/ha
• Use:
  Foodstuff
  - cooked vegetable, soups
  Fresh leek contains 90% water, 5-7% carbohydrate, 2-3% protein, 0.3% fat; high vitamin content.

Region of origin: Region of cultivation:

• Cultivation and Breeding:
  The leek probably arose from the wild type Allium ampeloprasum, which is a native of South Europe and Asia. The history of its cultivation essentially corresponds to that of the onion. It can be distinguished from the onion by the absence of a pronounced "onion" bulb, the strong elongation of the under-leaves and also the flat unrolled upper-leaves. There are short-lived summer and frost resistant winter varieties.
• Breeding aims:
  Stable, high yielding varieties with uniform length, white shafts and erect leaves are required. Winter varieties must exhibit frost hardiness.

Text by Dr. Wolfgang Schuchert
Adapted to HTML by R.Saedler