Family

Amaryllidaceae

Description

Nodding onion (Allium cernuum) is a graceful native wildflower recognized by its distinctive arched stems that suspend pink to lavender bell-shaped flowers in mid to late summer. The nodding habit protects the blooms from direct rain exposure and may help attract certain pollinators, including native bees and butterflies. Like other true alliums, the foliage has a mild onion scent when crushed and is occasionally browsed by herbivores.

 

Native to rocky outcrops, prairies, and open woodlands across much of North America, Allium cernuum prefers well-drained soils in full sun to light shade. It readily self-seeds in undisturbed areas, forming loose colonies that add movement and fine texture to naturalistic plantings or native borders. Unlike many ornamental onions, this species is long-lived and hardy in colder climates.

Bloom Time

June to August