Allium Kurrat – Egyptian Leek Seeds

Allium ampeloprasum var. kurrat

Allium kurrat, also known as Egyptian leek or Kurrat, is a perennial plant in the Alliaceae family. Native to Egypt and the surrounding Middle Eastern regions, it is now cultivated in temperate climates worldwide. The plant is valued for its long, slender, hollow leaves, which have a mild onion flavour and are widely used in Middle Eastern, Egyptian, and Mediterranean cooking. Its leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, and they are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium.

Kurrat produces dark green leaves that can reach up to 20 inches in length and small white flowers in rounded clusters on tall stems. The plant grows quickly and is hardy, tolerating a variety of soils, although it prefers well-drained soil with good fertility. Full sun is ideal for growth, but it can tolerate partial shade. Optimal temperatures for Kurrat range from 18 to 28°C, and extreme heat or cold can affect development.

This plant grows best in sandy or loamy soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5, enriched with organic matter. It requires consistent moisture, particularly during its first growing season, and benefits from compost or balanced fertiliser applied in spring and mid-summer. Over fertilizing should be avoided, as it can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of bulb development. Regular pruning of leaf tips can help maintain plant shape and promote new growth.

Allium kurrat can be propagated by seeds, bulbs, or division. Seeds are sown in early spring in well-draining soil and thinned to allow proper spacing. Bulbs can be planted in spring and will sprout within weeks. Mature clumps can also be divided, ensuring each section has healthy shoots and roots.
Although relatively pest- and disease-resistant, Kurrat can be affected by leaf blight, pink root, thrips, and aphids. Good cultural practices, including proper spacing, watering at the base, removing dead foliage, and rotating crops, can prevent most issues and keep plants healthy.

With proper care, Allium kurrat is a versatile and productive plant, providing flavourful greens for culinary use while being an attractive and resilient addition to the garden. They may even repel moles!

Visit my sunchoke blog for some recipes that use leek and sunchokes.

These kurrat seeds are available directly from Garden Faerie Botanicals in the heart of British Columbia, Canada. The collection features heirloom and heritage seeds that are personally cultivated organically without the use of any chemicals. Emphasizing historical, rare, non-GMO seeds, this selection preserves biodiversity through open-pollination.