Nodding Onion
Perennial wildflower growing in clumps, reaching 30-60 cm in height. Features slender, grass-like leaves and distinctive nodding flower heads with small, bell-shaped pink to lavender flowers. Blooms in mid to late summer, attracting various pollinators. Prefers well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade, tolerating drought once established. Entire plant is edible with mild onion flavor. Used in rock gardens, prairie plantings, and as low-maintenance perennial in sunny borders. Naturalizes easily in suitable conditions.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Pink to Lavender
Bloom Time: Mid to Late-Summer
Sun Requirements: Sun to Part-Sun
Moisture: Dry to Moist-Drained
Phenology: New leaves emerge in early spring (April). Flower scapes appear in June. Blooms late June through July. Seed heads develop August-September. Foliage yellows and dies back by October. Underground bulbs dormant through winter.
Wildlife Value: Attracts native bees and butterflies; seeds eaten by ground birds; bulbs occasionally eaten by small mammals; deer and rabbit resistant
Habit Over Time: Creates loose colonies through short rhizomes and self-seeding. The delicate, nodding flower stems emerge from narrow foliage that allows plenty of space for interplanting. While it can spread steadily in optimal conditions, its modest size prevents it from overwhelming neighbors.
Height: Short to Medium (1-2 feet)