Ashanti Society Garlic offers a unique blend of ornamental beauty and garden utility. This perennial features attractive strap-like leaves and delicate purple flowers, providing visual interest. When its foliage is gently crushed, it releases a subtle garlic scent.
Understanding Ashanti Society Garlic
Ashanti Society Garlic (Tulbaghia x ‘Ashanti’ PP27,404) is a distinctive cultivar developed in South Africa in 2001, a hybrid of Tulbaghia violacea and Tulbaghia cominsii. This cultivar forms compact clumps of dense, narrow, soft green to bluish grass-like foliage, approximately 1 foot tall and wide. Delicate upright stems emerge above the foliage, presenting beautiful soft violet-colored or lavender-pink blooms that can reach up to 2 feet in height. These flowers are notably larger and bloom for a longer period compared to typical Society Garlic varieties. ‘Ashanti’ is recognized for its impressive hardiness.
Cultivating Ashanti Society Garlic
Successful cultivation of Ashanti Society Garlic requires understanding its environmental needs. Providing the right conditions ensures a vigorous and floriferous plant, making it a desirable low-maintenance perennial.
Light Requirements
Ashanti Society Garlic performs best in full sun, receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, which encourages prolific flowering and robust growth. It can tolerate partial shade (four to six hours of direct sunlight), especially in hotter climates, though flowering may be less abundant.
Soil Preferences
This plant thrives in well-draining soil conditions. Average to humus-rich, light, or sandy soil is ideal, as it prevents waterlogging. A soil pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral, specifically between 6.8 and 7.5, is generally preferred for optimal growth. Amending heavy or poor soils with organic matter can improve drainage and provide a suitable environment for its tuberous roots.
Watering Guidelines
During its initial growing season, Ashanti Society Garlic benefits from deep, regular watering to establish a strong root system. Once established, it becomes drought tolerant, and watering frequency can be significantly reduced. Water when the top 3 inches of soil feel dry, typically once per week for established plants. Avoid overwatering, particularly in poorly draining soils.
Temperature and Humidity
Ashanti Society Garlic is hardy in USDA Zones 7 through 11, withstanding moderate cold and significant heat. The plant remains evergreen down to approximately 25°F, and its root system can endure even colder temperatures. Its proven heat tolerance, including “Flameproof Plant” certification, highlights its suitability for warmer climates. This cultivar tolerates typical outdoor humidity levels.
Fertilization
Ashanti Society Garlic is generally considered a low-feeder and does not require extensive fertilization. Applying a general-purpose fertilizer or organic compost annually in early spring is typically sufficient to support its growth and flowering. Granular or liquid fertilizers can be used, with liquid forms requiring dilution before application. It is beneficial to moisten the soil before, during, and after applying fertilizer to aid nutrient absorption and prevent root burn.
Propagating Ashanti Society Garlic
Propagating Ashanti Society Garlic is straightforward, primarily achieved through the division of its clumps. This method allows gardeners to easily expand their collection or share plants, ensuring new plants retain the specific characteristics of the ‘Ashanti’ cultivar.
To propagate by division, carefully dig up an established clump, ideally in late autumn or early winter after flowering has ceased. The clump can then be gently separated into smaller sections by hand, ensuring each new section has a portion of the roots attached. Cutting back about half of the foliage on each division can help reduce transplant shock, allowing the plant to focus energy on root establishment. These newly divided plants can then be replanted at the same depth as the original plant in their desired location or into pots. While seed propagation is possible for the species, division is preferred for ‘Ashanti’ to maintain its unique hybrid traits.
Uses and Benefits of Ashanti Society Garlic
Ashanti Society Garlic offers numerous advantages in a garden setting. It is highly valued for its ornamental contribution, serving well in borders, rock gardens, and containers due to its compact size, attractive foliage, and flowers. Its clumping growth habit and low-maintenance nature make it an excellent choice for mass plantings or as an edging plant.
Beyond aesthetics, the plant’s subtle garlic scent, particularly when leaves are crushed, acts as a natural deterrent to pests like deer and moles. The flowers and leaves are edible, offering a mild garlic flavor for culinary dishes. This plant also attracts beneficial pollinators, such as butterflies.
Common Challenges and Solutions
While generally resilient, Ashanti Society Garlic can face a few common issues. Overwatering is a frequent problem, leading to root rot if the soil remains soggy. Ensure well-draining soil and allow the top few inches to dry between waterings. Insufficient light can hinder performance, causing sparse flowering or leggy growth; relocating to a sunnier spot improves bloom production.
Though pest-resistant due to its aromatic foliage, rare instances of aphids or whiteflies might occur, manageable with a strong water spray or insecticidal soap. Fungal issues like rust or black spot are uncommon but can be mitigated by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.