leek: see onion onion, plant of the family Liliaceae (lily family), of the same genus (Allium) as the chive (A. schoenoprasum), garlic (A. sativum), leek (A. porrum), and shallot (A. ascalonium).
..... Click the link for more information. .
Hardy, vigorous, biennial plant (Allium porrum) of the lily family, native to the eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East. It has a mild, sweet, onionlike flavour. In Europe it is widely used in soups and stews and is cooked whole as a vegetable. It became the national emblem of Wales following an ancient victory by an army of Welshmen who wore leeks as a distinguishing sign. The long, narrow leaves and nearly cylindrical bulb of the first season are replaced in the second season by a tall solid stalk bearing leaves and a large umbel with many flowers.
leek
leek [lēk]
..... Click the link for more information. .
leek
)
Leek (Allium porrum)
(credit: G.R. Roberts)
leek
1. an alliaceous plant, Allium porrum, with a slender white bulb, cylindrical stem, and broad flat overlapping leaves: used in cooking
2. any of several related species, such as A. ampeloprasum (wild leek)
3. a leek, or a representation of one, as a national emblem of Wales
leek [lēk]
(botany)
Allium porrum.A biennial herb known only by cultivation; grown for its mildly pungent succulent leaves and thick cylindrical stalk.
leek
of Wales. [Flower Symbolism: Brewer Note-Book, 334]
Leek
(Allium porrum), a perennial species of onion. Leeks form a thick stalk, the lower portion of which is used for food. The young leaves are also edible. Leeks are propagated from seeds.
Want to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit the webmaster's page for free fun content.
| ?Page tools | ||
|---|---|---|
|