Onion-scented grass-like leaves and summer blooms. Flowering structures consist of characteristically nodding umbel-shaped clusters of bell-shaped flowers in shades of pink, lilac, or white. Used for food, historically. 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
Nodding Wild Onion
Allium cernuum
Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennials
Native Environment: Cliff, Glade
Season of Interest: Late (July - frost)
Main Color: Pink / Rose, White
Fall Color:
USDA PLANTS Range Map
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Photo: Mervin Wallace
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
18
inches
Spread:
3 to
6
inches
Size
Height: 10 to
18
inches
Spread: 3 to
6
inches
Size
Height: 10 to
18
inches
Spread: 3 to
6
inches
Typical Landscape Use
Massed or dispersed in borders and beds; rock gardens. Also in planted meadows where it may proliferate.
Establishment and Care Instructions
Ensure soil is well-drained. Allow plant to spread in appropriate spots or deadhead before seeds appear to control this tendency.
Special Features
Special Usage
Edible
Basic Description
Where Should I Start?
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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.