Allium cernuum

nodding onion

Nodding onion is a uniquely charismatic garden plant, with sleek, gently curling leaves that give rise to stems of nodding pink flowers, forming mid-summer and persisting until August. As with most of the genus, this species emits a pleasant onion scent.

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Height: 12-18 in
Spread: 8-14 in
Hardiness Zone: 3-9


Bloom Color: Pink

Characteristics & Attributes

Cultivation Status
• Species
Exposure
• Sun
• Part Shade
Soil Moisture
• Dry
• Average
Ecoregion
• (83) Eastern Great Lakes Lowlands
• Not Ecotypic in New England
Ornamental Interest
• Summer Bloom
Attracts Wildlife
• Pollinator Powerhouse Plant
• Attracts Bees
Tolerance
• Urban Environment
• Drought Tolerant
• Deer/Rabbit Resistant
Additional Attributes
• Low Maintenance
• Edible
• Fragrant
Landscape Use
• Rain Garden
• Naturalize
• Massing


North American Distribution


nodding onion - Allium cernuum from Native Plant Trust
Photo by Dan Jaffe (c) Native Plant Trust
nodding onion - Allium cernuum from Native Plant Trust
Photo by Dan Jaffe (c) Native Plant Trust