Leeks are biennial and most of them will never bloom, as they are generally planted and harvested the same year. The edible part is the bottom six to ten inches, depending on the size of the plant. The leek, commonly used in soups, is a cousin of the onion although with a milder, more herbal flavor that sweetens as it cooks.
If you find yourself with an abundance of leeks at the end of the season, and you have the space to leave a
few in the ground to over-winter, I encourage you to do so. They make a stunning arrangement.
Being a biennial, the leek will grow a tall flower stalk and bloom the second season. The blossom explodes like July 4th fireworks frozen in time against a dark sky. Although blooming diminishes the eating quality of leeks, one seed head will give enough seeds for many dozen little baby leeks the following year. The sparkler bouquet lasts for weeks.
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