Nodding Onion -- Allium cernuum

Nodding onion is a versatile native onion that can survive on rocky ledges in the blaring sun or in rich soil in cool, shady environments under a canopy of hardwoods. Does best in part shade. As an onion, the bulbs and foliage are edible — and quite tasty! In optimum conditions the bulbs can grow the same size as wild leeks or ramps. Flowers emerge in summer and are quite showy, ranging in color from white or the palest pink, to magenta. The bulbs divide and multiply easily, and they also spread themselves readily by seed.