Garlic
Allium sativum L.
Embedded Files
Common Name(s): Garlic
Scientific Name: Allium sativum L.
Classification: Garlic belongs to the clade Angiosperms, family Amaryllidaceae, Genus Allium, and species sativum L. Their genus includes other common vegetables such as Scallions, Onions, Shallots and Leeks and are characterized by bulbous root systems. By having the species name in the second half of garlic's scientific name (Allium sativum L.) it can be distinguished from the other allium plants in its genus.
Varieties: Garlic has hundreds of varieties worldwide but can broadly be categorized between hard neck (A. sativum var. ophioscorodon) and softneck (A. sativum var. sativum) garlic. Soft neck garlic is grown in warmer climates and is smaller while hard neck garlic is generally grown in cooler areas and is larger.
Information: A recent study compiling research on garlic shown that garlic can be tied to markers preventing various chronic diseases such as blood pressure, cardiovascular and metabolic disorders, cancer, and diabetes due to the fact that it contains oxidants and can lower lipids. Culturally, garlic is used in cuisines across the world, often enhancing flavors as a seasoning in sauces or on meats. Garlic is native to Central and south Asia, therefore it is not native to Missouri. It is grown as a domesticated plant.
My Connection:
My personal connection to garlic lies on my family farm. Every year my mom grows garlic and has continued to expand the operation. Today she grows 17 different varieties. I have many memories as a child planting garlic cloves with her as well helping to build new raised garden beds just for garlic. In the picture to the right, you can see our garlic hanging from the porch on our farm to dry. You have to do this in order to prevent it from getting moldy after harvest. This summer, my brother and I spent a lot of time stringing garlic and hanging on the porch. Additionally, my family loves to cook with garlic. We use it in many Vietnamese dishes as it is a common staple seasoning in the cuisine. For example, one of our favorite dishes with leftover chicken---called "orange rice"---always includes garlic that we grow on the farm.
SOURCES
IMAGES
https://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/8076888/how-to-peel-garlic/
https://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/250668/pickled-garlic-cloves/
Page updated
Report abuse