SafePlants

Three-Cornered Leek (Allium triquetrum)

Allium triquetrum, commonly known as three-cornered leek, is a bulbous perennial plant belonging to the onion and garlic genus Allium. It's recognized for its distinctive three-angled stems and its use in various culinary applications.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Allium triquetrum
• Common Names: Three-Cornered Leek, Wildflower Garlic, White Flowered Onion, Three-cornered Garlic, Onion Weed, Angled Onion.
• Family: Alliaceae (the onion family, formerly part of the Liliaceae family)
• Synonyms: Triquetrous Garlic, Snow-bell, Stinking Onions, White Bluebell

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the Mediterranean basin.
• Has naturalized in areas such as Great Britain, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia and Tasmania, and Europe.
• Can be found growing beside creeks or in gardens.

Ecological Role

• Considered an invasive species in some regions, including parts of the UK, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia and Tasmania.
• Spreads by seed.

Morphological Characteristics

• Bulbous plant.
• Leaves are narrow, grass-like, and sharply keeled, sometimes with curly tips.
• Flowering stems are three-angled, hence the name "triquetrum."
• Flowers are bell-like, white, and approximately 2cm long (10-18mm), arranged in a small cluster of thin, drooping stalks.
• Flowering stem has three angles.
• Has a tuft of soft basal leaves arising annually.

Traditional Uses

• Leaves are edible when tender and full-flavored.
• Used in various recipes, including pesto, salads, and frittatas.
• The flowers are also edible.

Quirky Facts

• The name "triquetrum" refers to the three-cornered shape of its flowering stem and the base of the leaves.
• The leaves have a ridge down the middle resembling the keel of a ship.