Re: Society Garlic
- Subject: Re: Society Garlic
- From: J* M*
- Date: Tue, 26 Feb 2002 23:20:05 -0800
Krzysztof Kozminski wrote:
> Am I the only one who thinks that Tulbaghia violacea smells more
> like a skunk than garlic?
My take on it is that it is a hybrid - between garlic and a skunk -
inheriting the worst qualities of both! But I still like the plant. As in
the case of skunks, I just try not to disturb it unduly. And when
separating it, I use disposable gloves. The stink can take several days to
wash off your hands.
But for some strange reason, the skunk smell doesn't extend to the flowers.
They smell sweet, with just a hint of garlic. I suppose it is a deterrent
to herbivores that might be be inclined to eat the leaves in the wild. I
still like to eat the flowers. ;-)
John MacGregor
South Pasadena, CA 91030
USDA zone 9 Sunset zones 21/23
