Allium bolanderi

Watson

Bolander's onion

Amaryllidaceae Edible: Flowers, Leaves, Root, Bulb Potential hazards — see below 143 iNaturalist observations

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Summary

Allium bolanderi is a species of wild onion known by the common name Bolander's onion. It is native to northern California and southwestern Oregon, where it grows in the rocky soils of the Klamath Mountains and surrounding regions. Allium bolanderi grows from an oval-shaped bulb up to 2 cm (3⁄4 in) long with associated rhizomes. The stem reaches about 35 cm (14 in) in maximum height and there are two or three long, cylindrical leaves about the same length as the stem. The inflorescence contains 10 to 20 reddish-purple, or occasionally white, flowers, each with very finely toothed tepals. Two varieties are recognized: Allium bolanderi var. bolanderi Allium bolanderi var. mirabile (L.F.Hend.) McNeal

Description

Small bulbous allium 20 cm tall, hardy to UK zone 7. Flowers July to August. Hermaphrodite flowers attract bees and insects. Thrives in light sandy or loamy, well-drained soil with mildly acidic to basic pH. Requires full sun and prefers moist soil.

Edible Uses

The bulbs are edible raw or cooked and measure 10–25mm wide. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. The flowers are used raw as a garnish on salads.

Traditional Uses

The bulbs are eaten raw or cooked. The leaves are eaten raw or cooked. The flowers are used raw or to flavour salads.

This uses section is brief — help expand it

Medicinal Uses

No specific medicinal uses have been recorded for this species, but members of this genus are generally considered very healthy dietary additions. They contain sulphur compounds responsible for their onion flavour, and eaten regularly they help reduce blood cholesterol levels, act as a tonic to the digestive system, and support circulatory health.

Known Hazards

Although no individual reports regarding this species have been seen, there have been cases of poisoning caused by the consumption, in large quantities and by some mammals, of certain members of this genus. Dogs seem to be particularly susceptible.

Distribution

Plant grow naturally in South-western North America in California on heavy soils and openings in brush and woods below 900 metres.

Where It Grows

North America, USA,

Cultivation

Prefers a sunny position in a light well-drained soil. The bulbs should be planted fairly deeply. Most members of this genus are intolerant of competition from other growing plants. Grows well with most plants, especially roses, carrots, beet and chamomile, but it inhibits the growth of legumes. This plant is a bad companion for alfalfa, each species negatively affecting the other. Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer.

Propagation

Sow seed in spring in a cold frame. Prick seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle — placing three plants per pot will build clumps more quickly. Grow on in the greenhouse through at least their first winter, then plant out into permanent positions in spring once they are vigorous and of sufficient size. Division is best carried out in spring, though the plants divide successfully at any point during the growing season. Pot up the divisions in a cold frame or greenhouse until they are growing well before planting out into permanent positions.

Other Uses

The plant's juice can be used as a moth repellent, and the whole plant is said to deter insects and moles.

Notes

There are about 300-700 Allium species. Most species of Allium are edible (Flora of China). All alliums are edible but they may not all be worth eating! They have also been put in the family Alliaceae.

Synonyms

Allium stenanthum (Drew.)

References (1)

Beckstrom-Sternberg, Stephen M., and James A. Duke. "The Foodplant Database." http://probe.nalusda.gov:8300/cgi-bin/browse/foodplantdb.(ACEDB version 4.0 - data version July 1994)