Allium Cernuum

Description

This delightful species of ornamental onion has very narrow leaves and produces loose umbels of nodding buds which later arise to balls of purplish-pink flowers in early summer. It naturalises easily making attractive drifts without becoming a nuisance. It is also known as "nodding onion" and "lady's leek" This plant is native to North America from New York to British Columbia south to Virginia and Kentucky, and south in the mountains, where it grows in dry woods, rock outcroppings, and prairies. The bulb is edible and has a strong onion flavour.

Sowing Advice

Sow seeds at any time, covering them very thinly with compost or grit, keeping the seed pot in a cool, well-lit spot outdoors. Artificial heat is not needed and can prevent germination so be very patient as many species will only germinate in the spring after chilling or freezing in the moist seed pot in the winter. Grow on individual seedlings in small pots until of sufficient size to be potted on or planted out into the open ground.

Key Facts