Cloves: Averages 6-8 large cloves that are fairly consistent in size (take a look at the cross section in our photo above). The bulb pops easily and there are very few double cloves, which is a great boon to commercial growers.

Bulbils: 40-60 medium sized bulbils per umbel (and another 30-60 smaller ones) which grow into large rounds the 1st year and good sized, fully cloved bulbs the 2nd year. 3 years to full maturity.

Growing: We've been growing this cultivar since 2009 and have found it to be the most consistent performer in our fields. Tolerates a wide range of soil moisture and growing conditions. Medium to broad leaves and scapes that do a playful dance rather than curling tightly. Scape removal before stiffening does help to increase bulb size.

Harvest: Mid-season harvest. Let those bulbs reach their maximum size by waiting until a good 50% of the leaves are brown. The wrappers on Marbled Purple Stripes (which are an extension of the leaves above) are so thick and strong that you don't need as many to be intact at harvest.

Storage: Good mid to long-term storing garlic. If you plan to use as seed garlic, we recommend gently tearing the wrapper around the stem to allow air down in to the cloves, otherwise the thick wrappers can hold moisture and promote mold. Expect 6-8 months if stored properly.

Pedigree: Red Russian comes to us from Heino and Manuela Peters of Roots and Greens Farm in Grindrod. Heino tells of having received his Russian Red from the archetypal "little old lady" who grew it in the Vernon area of BC for decades prior to passing it along to him.