The Leek - A Little History and Some Growing Instructions The leek is a member of the onion family with a flavor that is much more refined, subtle and sweet than the standard onion. Wild leeks called ramps more closely resemble scallions and have a much harsher flavor than their cultivated cousins. Leeks are thought to be native to the Mediterranean area and Asia and have been cultivated for more than 3000 years. In the Book of Numbers in the Bible, after the children of Israel left Egypt, leeks were one of the foods mentioned as being greatly missed. Leeks figured prominently in the Egyptian diet and they were a favorite with the Romans. Leeks were known to have a soothing effect on the throat. Emperor Nero
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