Russian Purple Garlic

Russian Purple Garlic (Allium sativum var. ophioscorodon Russian Purple) is a hardneck Rocambole garlic variety distinguished by bulbs wrapped in glossy purple skins. Its large, plump cloves offer a rich, well-balanced flavour that is both mild and pleasantly pungent, making them suitable for fresh preparations and cooked dishes alike. Its upright, blue-green foliage reaches 40 to 60 cm in height before turning yellow at maturity. Extremely hardy to Zone 2, this garlic performs especially reliably in Quebecs cold climate and produces abundant harvests that can be stored for several months.

Plant the cloves in fall with the pointed end facing upward, approximately 5 cm deep, spacing them 10 to 15 cm apart and leaving 30 cm between rows. Choose a location in full sun with loose, organically rich, and perfectly drained soil. An application of well-aged compost before planting encourages bulb development, while excessive nitrogen mainly promotes foliage growth. Water lightly after planting, then moderately during active growth without keeping the soil constantly wet. Gradually reduce watering before harvest and remove the flower scapes to encourage larger bulbs.

Russian Purple garlic is ideal for family vegetable gardens, food gardens, edible flower beds, and large, well-drained containers. It grows well alongside carrots, tomatoes, beets, lettuce, and strawberries while helping deter certain pests. Its young flower scapes are edible and delicious sauted, grilled, or made into pesto; when left on the plant, their flowers may attract pollinators. The cloves add wonderful flavour to marinades, grilled dishes, stews, confit preparations, and lacto-fermented recipes. Harvest when approximately half of the foliage has faded, then cure the bulbs in a dry, well-ventilated location.