NC State Extension Publications

Description

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Wild garlic (Allium ursinum) is a perennial plant with an odor of garlic which develops from a basal bulb covered by a membranous coat. At maturity, the bulb is covered with small yellowish bulbs, flattened on one side, which readily split apart. Leaves are hollow and round. The greenish pink to purplish flowers are borne in clusters at the stem tip and are often mixed among small greenish aerial bulblets.

Cultural Control

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Perennial turf weeds are capable of living more than two years. They thrive in weak, thin turf; golf fairways and roughs; home lawns; playfields; and industrial grounds. Proper turf maintenance is the key to control of this weed. First, select adapted turfgrass cultivars for your area and then properly fertilize, mow, and water to encourage dense growth.

Species Data

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  • GROWTH SEASON / LIFE CYCLE
    • perennial weed
  • GROWTH HABIT
    • upright
  • LEAFLET NUMBER
    • upright leaves are slender, round, and hollow and resemble grass blades
  • LEAF MARGIN
    • smooth
  • LEAF HAIRS
    • none
  • LEAF / LEAFLET SHAPE
    • linear/oblong
  • LEAF WIDTH
    • <12 inch
  • LEAF VENATION
    • parallel
  • ROOT TYPE
    • bulbous; fibrous roots are attached to the bottom of the bulb
      Figure 1
  • FLOWER COLOR
Wild garlic root type.

Figure 1. Wild garlic root type.

Wild garlic.

Figure 2. Wild garlic.

Wild garlic

Figure 3. Wild garlic.

Author

Extension Specialist (Turfgrass/Forage Crop Weed Mgt)
Crop & Soil Sciences

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Publication date: Nov. 16, 2017

Recommendations for the use of agricultural chemicals are included in this publication as a convenience to the reader. The use of brand names and any mention or listing of commercial products or services in this publication does not imply endorsement by NC State University or N.C. A&T State University nor discrimination against similar products or services not mentioned. Individuals who use agricultural chemicals are responsible for ensuring that the intended use complies with current regulations and conforms to the product label. Be sure to obtain current information about usage regulations and examine a current product label before applying any chemical. For assistance, contact your local N.C. Cooperative Extension county center.

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