Ramps Wild Edible Plants For Survival

Ramps (Allium tricoccum) are a North American perennial plant with relatives abroad. Ramps are similar to onions, leeks or scallions and indeed are a species of wild onion. They form a bulb yet have a broad, smooth, leaves. The flower stalks only appear after the leaves have died.

Ramps grow in low mountain altitudes of the Appalachians from South Carolina up into Canada. Harvesting can be done by cutting the root with a knife, leaving 1/3 of the bulb and roots remaining in the ground. If you harvested this way, it will help ensure that this great find isn't a one-time deal. If you pick all the ramps in your area they may not come back. Trust me, ramps are a survival food that rivals any commercially raised plant with regard to taste. Don't ruin a good thing.

The white lower leaf stalks and the broad green leaves are both edible. The taste is a cross between garlic and onion. So be warned if you eat a bunch at one sitting you might get garlic breath. Ramp picking season is in the spring of the year. So if you have ramps in your area, consider yourself blessed.