Allium cernuum Nodding onion (Alliaceae)

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Allium cernuum
Nodding onion
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The Allium cernuum plant species is found in N. America - Canada to Mexico. It is a member of the Alliaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Nodding onion.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Allium cernuum
Common Name:  Nodding onion
Family:  Alliaceae
Author:  Roth.

Known Hazards:  Although no individual reports regarding this species have been seen, there have been cases of poisoning caused by the consumption, in large quantities and by some mammals, of certain members of this genus. Dogs seem to be particularly susceptible[76].

Mature Height:  0.45   Mature Width:  0.25

Habitat:  Ledges, gravels, rocky or wooded slopes and crests ascending to high altitudes[43].

Cultivation Notes: An easily grown plant[203], it prefers a sunny position in a light well-drained soil[1]. Succeeds in clay soils[203]. Established plants are fairly drought tolerant[190]. Plants succeed in maritime gardens[233]. A very ornamental plant, it makes a very decorative edging to flower beds[K]. This species is self-sowing quite freely in our Cornwall garden[K]. The bulbs should be planted fairly deeply[1]. Most members of this genus are intolerant of competition from other growing plants[203], though this species has tolerated considerable neglect in our Cornwall garden[K]. The cultivar 'Major' is a more vigorous form with larger flower clusters[90]. Grows well with most plants, especially roses, carrots, beet and chamomile, but it inhibits the growth of legumes[18, 20, 54]. This plant is a bad companion for alfalfa, each species negatively affecting the other[201]. A widespread and very variable species[1]. It is closely allied to A. stellatum[1]. Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer[233].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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