Wild Onion
Allium cernuum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
8"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CO and 28 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, moths
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Wild onion is a graceful native bulb that produces clusters of drooping pink to white flowers on slender stems in summer. The narrow, grass-like leaves emerge in spring and die back by late summer, making this plant essentially dormant through fall and winter.
In an HOA neighborhood
Wild Onion is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- Goes completely dormant leaving bare spots
- May look too wild or weedy for formal settings
- Common name 'wild onion' could raise concerns
Wildlife value
The nodding flower clusters are excellent for bees, butterflies, and moths during the summer bloom period. Seeds also provide food for birds.
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.