Invasive Species Council of British Columbia
Grow Me Instead

Nodding onion

Allium cernuum

About This Species

Zone 4a BC Native

Grow me instead of Bachelor’s buttons, Mountain bluet

This native species has delicate, grass-like foliage and nodding clusters of beautiful, bell-shaped flowers ranging in colours from lilac to white, with showy yellow stamens (the part of the flower which holds up the pollen). Nodding onion blooms from late spring to mid summer and each stem may produce up to 30 flowers. A member of the Allium (onion) genus, this flower grows from a small bulb and has a delicate onion scent when cut or crushed.

When selecting non-invasive plants for your garden, be sure to look for those that are suitable for your location, including moisture requirements, hardiness zone, and avoidance of known bear attractants among other factors.

Plant Special Features

  • Drought-tolerant
  • Fire smart
  • Pollinator friendly

Moisture Requirements

Low

Dry or occasionally moist conditions