Leek 'Musselburgh'

'Musselburgh' is an heirloom leek variety that has been a staple of British gardens since the 1830s. Originated near Edinburgh, it is supremely adapted to the cold, wet winters of the UK, being one of the most winter-hardy vegetables available. It produces very thick, relatively short 'shanks' (stems) with a large diameter. The foliage is a distinctive blue-green and fan-shaped. Unlike some modern hybrids, 'Musselburgh' has a wonderful, mild flavour and a tender texture that doesn't become woody even in the harshest weather. It is usually sown in a seedbed in spring and then 'transplanted' into deep holes in summer to encourage long, blanched white stems. Harvesting can take place from October all the way through to the following April. It is a reliable, slow-growing variety that requires little maintenance once established, other than regular weeding and occasional watering during summer droughts. It is the perfect ingredient for traditional cock-a-leekie soup or leek and potato gratin.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Fertile, moisture-retentive soil.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: Jul, Aug.