Winter garlic "RUSTISEM"
Allium sativum var sativum ssp silverskin subvar creole
Rustisem is a strong, productive, and resilient hardneck winter garlic variety, known for its large, firm bulbs and distinctly purple clove skins. The variety is suitable for cooler regions and ensures consistent yields even in harsh climatic conditions.
The flavor is sharp, persistent, and aromatic, making Rustisem an excellent choice for cooking, pickling, fermenting, and spicier dishes. The bulbs usually form 6–9 large cloves, which are convenient for use both professionally and in home cooking.
Rustisem is a garlic line from the Eastern European and Baltic region, developed through the selection of locally cold-hardy winter garlic. It is considered a variety that originated through natural selection on rural farms, where planting material was chosen over decades from the strongest yields.
Important historical points:
History
Natural selection
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Emerged as a strong, resilient line in regions with long winters.
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Growers preferred plants with large cloves, early ripening, and stable winter hardiness.
Widespread in the late 20th century
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In the 1980s–2000s, Rustisem became popular in Baltic and Polish farms as a productive variety that grows well in various soils.
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Thanks to its resilience, it began to be actively offered as planting material for small and medium-sized farms.
Nowadays
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Rustisem has become one of the most stable winter hardneck varieties, chosen by both professional garlic growers and hobby gardeners.
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The variety is recognized as ideally suited for the Latvian climate.
Description
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Hardneck, Purple Stripe / Marbled Purple Stripe |
| Bulb size | Medium-large (55–70 mm) |
| Number of cloves | 6–9 large, symmetrical cloves |
| Color | White–purple outer skin, dark purple clove wrapper |
| Flavor | Very sharp, rich, persistent |
| Aroma | Intense |
| Ripening time | Medium early |
| Winter hardiness | Very high – suitable for Northern European climate |
| Disease resistance | Good against root rot, moderately good against fungi |
| Yield | High, consistent |
| Storage | 5–6 months |
| Scape | Forms (hardneck) |
| Soil | Fertile, well-drained, pH 6.2–7.4 |
| Usage | For dishes with pronounced flavor, pickling, fresh consumption |
Rustisem is a high-quality winter hardneck garlic variety that stands out with large bulbs, intense flavor, and excellent winter hardiness. The variety is especially suitable for the climate of Latvia and Northern Europe, ensuring stable and abundant yields. The purple clove wrapper and strong aroma make Rustisem a popular choice in cooking, pickling, and spicy dishes. An ideal choice for both professional growers and home gardens.