Allium acuminatum

Allium acuminatum, also known as the tapertip onion or hooker's onion, is a species of wild onion found in the Western United States and Canada. It is a member of the Allium genus, which includes other well-known plants such as garlic, leek, and chive.

Description

Allium acuminatum grows from a bulb which is 1-2 cm in diameter. The stem is 10-40 cm tall, surrounded by two to three leaves that die back before the flower blooms. The flowers are pink to purple, and bloom in the late spring or early summer. The plant is known for its distinctive, strong onion or garlic-like aroma.

Habitat and Distribution

Allium acuminatum is native to the Western United States and Canada. It is commonly found in dry, rocky places in the mountains and plains. It is most commonly found in the Pacific Northwest, but its range extends east to the Rocky Mountains and south to California and Nevada.

Uses

The bulbs of Allium acuminatum were traditionally used as a food source by Native Americans in the Pacific Northwest. They were either consumed fresh or dried for later use. The bulbs were often cooked in a pit with hot stones for several days, which sweetened their flavor.

Cultivation

Allium acuminatum is not commonly cultivated, but it can be grown in a garden setting. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. The bulbs should be planted in the fall, 2-3 cm deep. The plants are drought-tolerant and require little to no watering once established.

Conservation Status

Allium acuminatum is not currently considered to be at risk. However, like all wild plants, it is vulnerable to habitat loss due to human activity.

See Also

• List of Allium species
• Edible plants of the Pacific Northwest

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