Among the forgotten treasures of the Quebec garden, the Sainte-Anne shallot stands out for its robustness and delicate flavor.
This perennial shallot variety, still cultivated by passionate gardeners, reminds us that some agricultural traditions carry as much memory as flavor.
A perennial and generous plant
Unlike traditional shallots, which are replanted every year, the Sainte-Anne shallot is a perennial. Once established in the garden, it returns faithfully season after season. Its ability to multiply makes it a valuable ally for gardeners focused on food autonomy. Each bulb produces around 10 to 12 shallots, which can be harvested, shared, or replanted for the following year.
A tradition rooted in the Catholic calendar
What makes this shallot unique is the legend surrounding its cultivation cycle. Passed down orally from generation to generation, it suggests harvesting on June 24th, St. John the Baptist’s day (a national holiday and a symbolic moment of light, at the summer solstice). After letting the bulbs dry in a safe place, and consuming what you want, the remaining bulbs are replanted on July 26th, the feast day of St. Anne, the patron saint of gardeners and grandmothers (yes, really!).)
This ancient rhythm, though not mandatory, seems to naturally align with the plant’s needs and the Quebec climate. Beyond the practical aspect, it adds a spiritual and cultural dimension to the cultivation of this shallot.
How to grow it
Cultivation is simple, but a few tips can ensure a good harvest:
Choose well-drained, sunny soil.
Plant the bulbs about 5 cm deep, spaced 10 to 15 cm apart, with the tops sticking out. Don’t bury them entirely; about 1/4 of the shallot should remain above the soil.
Harvest the bulbs when they reach maturity, when the foliage yellows and begins to dry out.
Dry the bulbs in the shade, then store them in a cool place until replanting.
- You can eat the green shallots in May, or consume them dried after June 24th, like gray shallots.
- **You can divide the clump at any time with a fork, for example, to use only half for eating. But if you never touch your clump, each shallot will try to multiply, and they will suffocate each other and stay small.
A plant to pass on
Growing the Sainte-Anne shallot is about preserving an ancient know-how. It is also about keeping a local tradition alive, full of meaning and beauty. Offer it to your loved ones, exchange it with other gardeners, and ensure this shallot continues to grow in our gardens for generations to come.