Onion-scented leaves with a fine grass-like texture emerge early in spring, followed by blooms April-June. Flowering structures consist of umbel-shaped clusters of pale pink or white star-shaped flowers; some or all flowers may be replaced by reddish bulblets. Leaves, bulbs, and bulblets are edible in small amounts. Note: This resource on this edible plant is intended as general information only. As with any foods, there is a potential for allergic reactions when consuming native edibles. Always seek the advice of a health professional with any questions about touching or eating any plant matter.
Native Plant Database
Header Photo: Mervin Wallace
Meadow Garlic
Allium canadense
Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennials
Native Environment: Prairie, Savanna / Woodland, Stream Edge
Season of Interest: Early (Feb - Apr), Mid (May - June)
Main Color: Pink / Rose, White
Fall Color:
USDA PLANTS Range Map
At the range map link above, zoom in for county-level data

Photo: Dan Tenaglia (courtesy of missouriplants.com)

Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Medium Sun/Average Shade

Soil
Moisture
Dry, Moderate

Nature Attracting
Pollinators/Beneficial Insects

Wildlife Benefit
Food/Pollinators

Animal
Resistance
Deer Resistant, Rabbit Resistant
Size
Height:
10 to
12
inches
Spread:
3 to
6
inches
Size
Height: 10 to
12
inches
Spread: 3 to
6
inches
Size
Height: 10 to
12
inches
Spread: 3 to
6
inches
Typical Landscape Use
Massed or dispersed in borders and beds, planted along with later blooming species, and in prairie plantings. Also, in edible landscapes.
Establishment and Care Instructions
Plant in well-drained soil. Will spread by bulb offsets, aerial bulblets, and sometimes seed (note, may spread through lawns).
Special Features
Special Usage
Edible
Basic Description
Where Should I Start?
Check out the Grow Native! Committee’s Top Ten picks of native plants for a particular purpose.
What’s the Next Step?
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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?
Learn about the Native Environment(s) inhabited by the plants in this database.