Nodding Onion, New Mexican nodding onion

Allium cernuum

Physical Characteristics

Allium cernuum is a BULB growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 0.3 m (1ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf from February to December, in flower from June to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, insects. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

N. America - Canada to Mexico.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Root Edible Uses: The bulbs are edible raw or cooked, with a spicy onion flavor. Leaves are edible and can be chopped for seasoning. The nodding umbels of flowers are also edible and can be used raw in salads or as garnish[2-3]. Bulb - raw or cooked[2, 22, 161]. Strongly flavoured[46, 61, 159], it is mainly used as a flavouring[183, K]. The bulb is about 50mm tall and 15mm wide[235]. Leaves - raw or cooked[62, 85, 159]. A delicious, strong-onion flavour, they are very nice in salads[K]. The leaves are available from spring until the autumn and are one of the most favourite onions we are growing on our Cornish trial grounds[K]. Flowers - raw or cooked. A delicious strong onion flavour, somewhat stronger than the leaves especially if the seeds are starting to set[K]. They make a very decorative and tasty addition to the salad bowl[K].

Medicinal Uses

Lithontripic Poultice The whole plant has mild medicinal activity similar to the action of garlic (Allium sativum)[222]. It is used specifically as a poultice on the chest for the treatment of respiratory ailments and the juice has been used in the treatment of kidney stones[222]. The juice of the plant is used in treating colds, croup, sore throats etc[257]. A poultice of the plant is applied externally to various infections such as sore throats, sores, swellings, chest and pleurisy pains[257].

Known Hazards

Although no individual reports regarding this species have been seen, there have been cases of poisoning caused by the consumption, in large quantities and by some mammals, of certain members of this genus. Dogs seem to be particularly susceptible[76].