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Allium cernuum (Nodding onion)

Allium cernuum Photo/Illustration: Mark McDonough


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Botanical Name: Allium cernuum Common Name: Nodding onion Genus: Allium
This plant produces open clusters of pinkish purple, droplet-shaped flowers along drooping, arching 2-foot-tall stems. Its foliage is bluish green.
Noteworthy characteristics: The most remarkable feature of the nodding onion is its adaptability. It will grow in almost any situation, from full sun to deep shade.
Care: Best grown in full sun and dry to medium, well-drained soil. Tolerates shade as well, especially in hot climates. 
Propagation: Sow seed in spring in containers or in situ. Divide clump-forming plants in spring.
Problems: Bulb rot in damp conditions. Onion fly and thrips.
Height 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Light Full Sun to Part Shade
Tolerance Deer Tolerant
Characteristics Attracts Butterflies; Attracts Hummingbirds; Native
Bloom Time Summer
Flower Color Pink Flower; Purple/ Lavender Flower
Uses Beds and Borders, Naturalizing
Style Rock Garden
Seasonal Interest Summer Interest, Fall Interest
Type Perennials

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