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Wild Onion

Asphodelus fistulosus

Last reviewed: June 2026

Wild Onion (Asphodelus fistulosus)
Photo: Hans Hillewaert / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

12"–36" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

Apr, May

Native to

CA, NM, TX

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Wild onion is a slender perennial that produces tall, hollow stems topped with small white or pale pink flowers in spring. This Mediterranean native has adapted well to arid climates and requires minimal water once established.

In an HOA neighborhood

Wild Onion takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Considered weedy and invasive in many areas
  • Irregular growth habit looks unmanicured
  • Can spread aggressively

Wildlife value

The spring blooms attract bees and beetles during an important early season period. The plant provides nectar when few other flowers are available.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Does Wild Onion fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.