Top Leek Producing Countries

Leeks (*Allium ampeloprasum* var. *porrum*) have a rich agricultural history that traces back to the eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East, where they were cultivated as early as the time of the ancient Egyptians and Romans. The Romans are credited with spreading leeks throughout Europe, particularly into Britain, where they became a staple vegetable and a national symbol of Wales. Today, the top leek-producing countries are France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom in Europe, with France leading in both production and export. In Asia, Turkey and Japan are notable producers, while the United States also grows leeks on a commercial scale, primarily in California. The development of leek farming has evolved from small-scale, household plots to large, mechanized fields, with modern varieties bred for uniformity, disease resistance, and extended growing seasons.

Data from United Nations FAO Stat