Ramsons, also known as Wild Garlic (Allium ursinum), is a shade-loving, native UK wildflower that forms lush ground cover in woodlands and damp, fertile soils. Its broad green leaves, distinctive garlic aroma, and clusters of star-shaped white flowers make it a standout species in early spring landscapes.
Flowering from March to June, Ramsons supports early-season pollinators, including bees and hoverflies, at a time when few other plants are in bloom. It is a popular choice for naturalising shaded areas, woodland edges, riverbanks, and ecological restoration projects due to its ability to suppress weeds and improve habitat biodiversity.
Features & Benefits
Strong garlic scent with broad, glossy green foliage
Star-like white flowers that bloom in early spring
Native UK perennial ideal for shaded and moist soils
Attracts bees and early-season pollinators
Spreads gradually to form natural ground cover
Latin Name:
Allium ursinum
Flowering Time:
March – June
Flowering Height:
20 – 50 cm
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Wildflower Seed Approximate Sowing Rate:
7.5kg per acre (18.5kg per hectare)
Sowing Times:
Autumn (September – November)
How to Sow & Preparation
Choose a shaded, sheltered location with moist, fertile, well-drained soil.
Clear weeds and prepare a fine seedbed or sow into undisturbed woodland soil.
Sow in autumn, leaving seed uncovered or lightly pressed into the surface.
Ramsons seed requires cold stratification to germinate, so autumn sowing is ideal.
Plants may take up to 2 years to establish fully but will then spread naturally.
About John Chambers Wildflower Seeds
John Chambers Wildflower Seeds has been a trusted supplier of native UK wildflower seeds for over 35 years. Known for its high-quality, locally sourced seed and outstanding customer service, John Chambers provides ecological solutions for landscape contractors, local authorities, and conservationists focused on creating sustainable, biodiverse landscapes.

Attribute Detail
Latin Name Allium ursinum
Flowering Time March – June
Flowering Height 20 – 50 cm
Life Cycle Perennial
Sowing Rate 7.5kg per acre (18.5kg per hectare)
Sowing Period Autumn (Sept – Nov)
Preferred Conditions Shaded, moist, fertile soil
Pollinator Friendly Yes
Minimum Order Quantity 100g
Ideal For Woodland areas, riverbanks, shaded restoration sites