Allium cernuum

Allium cernuum, more commonly known as the nodding onion, is a bulbous plant that is decorative, useful, and culinary. This species is characterised by an umbel of flowers inclined towards the ground, unlike that of the common garlic which stands upright towards the sky. Its flowers are bright pink-mauve, carried by a short and sturdy stem that emerges in late spring from linear and aromatic foliage. Appealing in flower beds or rockeries, it also thrives in vegetable gardens, or in pots on a patio or balcony. It is a very hardy and perennial plant in well-drained soils, even rocky ones, where it will form beautiful clumps over time.

This edible garlic is native to a large part of North America, where it is found on rocky slopes, in dry meadows, or in light and dry woodland. It is a very hardy species, capable of surviving -20°C (-4°F) in well-drained soil. Its bulb is thin, conical, and devoid of a tunic. Each mature bulb produces a single flowering stem, about 35cm (14in) in height, taller than the foliage. The stems usually appear in June-July, earlier or later depending on the climate. At the top of this stem, an inflorescence forms, with a 3 to 4cm (1 to 2in) diameter umbel, consisting of up to 30 rose-amethyst flowers. They are shaped like cups and are carried by a long peduncle that bends towards the ground. The nectar-rich blooms are popular with bees. The flowers give way to fruits containing black and shiny seeds that easily self-sow in light soils. The foliage consists of linear, narrow leaves (2 to 4mm wide) that are semi-erect, gathered in a tight tuft about 20cm (8in) tall. This dark green foliage is aromatic when crushed. It yellows and disappears after flowering, in summer, when the plant enters dormancy. The nodding onion also reproduces by producing bulbils, which allow it to spread over time.

Easy to grow, delicious, and delightful, Allium cernuum is a reliable and perennial plant in well-drained soil. It appreciates slightly moist soils during its growing season, drier ones in summer, and a very sunny location. It is perfect in rock gardens or borders. It can be cultivated in a pot or in an alpine trough to enjoy its beautiful flowering on a balcony or patio. Plant it in groups of 5 between the stones in a rockery, among low ornamental grasses (stipa, carex), or mixed with spring bulbs and low-growing plants that will fill the space when its foliage has disappeared (thyme, silver basket, golden basket alyssum, catmints, or agastaches, for example).

In the kitchen: the leaves have a subtle onion flavour and should be added finely chopped at the last moment to cooked dishes, salads, compound butters, or vegetable garnishes. The flowers can be consumed fresh in salads and can also be macerated in vinegar. Closed flower buds are highly appreciated in Asian cuisine.