Allium neapolitanum

Allium neapolitanum, also known as the Naples garlic, daffodil garlic, false garlic, flowering onion, white garlic, or star, is a perennial bulbous plant that belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and is widely naturalized elsewhere.

Description

The Allium neapolitanum is a bulbous plant that grows up to 30-60 cm tall. It has a strong onion or garlic scent. The leaves are linear, and the bulbs are egg-shaped. The plant produces white flowers in the spring, which are arranged in an umbel. The flowers have six white tepals, with the inner ones being slightly larger.

Cultivation

Allium neapolitanum is cultivated as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers. It is also used in cooking for its mild garlic flavor. The plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and can be grown in USDA zones 7-10.

Uses

The bulbs and leaves of the Allium neapolitanum are edible and can be used in a similar way to garlic in cooking. The flowers are also edible and can be used to garnish salads and other dishes. The plant has also been used in traditional medicine for its antiseptic and therapeutic properties.

See also

• Allium
• Amaryllidaceae
• Mediterranean flora