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Nodding Onion | Allium cernuum

May contain: purple, herbal, herbs, plant, vegetation, grass, flower, field, grassland, nature, outdoors, countryside, meadow, rural, geranium, and petal
Nodding onion flowers in a grassy meadow. Image credit: Sevenoaks Native Nursery
May contain: flower, plant, and amaryllidaceae
A close up of nodding onion flowers. Image credit: Wikimedia Commons
May contain: flower and plant
A close up of nodding onion flowers. Image credit: Michigan Wildflower Farm
May contain: purple, herbal, herbs, plant, vegetation, grass, flower, field, grassland, nature, outdoors, countryside, meadow, rural, geranium, and petal
May contain: flower, plant, and amaryllidaceae
May contain: flower and plant

Star-like blossoms on downward-facing umbels dangle from each hooked stem, in shades of cream, pink, and lavendar. Grows best in full or partial sun and a variety of moist soil conditions including clay.  Easy to grow and will gradually spread by seed and bulbs.  Plant in mass for a stunning display.  Like all the Allium species, Nodding Onion has a pungent smell when bruised, making it deer-resistant. A native bee magnet!

Plant Details

HabitatMixed Conifer-Hardwood Forests, Upland Prairies
Habitat NotesDry meadows, grassy wooded banks, and on marshy ground. Often found in roadside ditches and swales. This species spreads easily once established
PhenologyPerennial; flowering May-July
Mature HeightUp to 2 feet
Shade PreferenceFull sun, light shade
Soil ToleranceMoist soils including sandy loam and clay
Special UsesAttracting native bees. Edible. Deer-resistant