The prairie onion, known for its delicate beauty and versatility, is a popular choice for wildflower gardens. Both its flowers and leaves are edible and make for great additions to salads or garnishes. Prairie onion is a hardy, pink-flowered perennial that grows well in various soils and environments, and can be found in almost every state in the US and Canada. Its long history of use by Native American tribes and early settlers include medicinal purposes such as treatments for congestion, fevers, and infection, as well as culinary uses during winter. Despite its dwindling presence in the wild, prairie onion is still included in many wildflower plantings due to its adaptability and beauty.
Planting: For optimal growth, Prairie Onion Allium Stellatum seeds should be planted in the fall as they remain dormant until spring. Alternatively, they can be direct sown in early spring after being refrigerated for 60 days. Indoors, plant 2-3 seeds per individual pot after 60 days in the fridge, and keep the temperature at around 60 degrees F until germination.
Growing: Keep young seedlings moist until they are established. Prairie onion adapts well to various soils and environments, including shade, clay, or rocky soils, and mature plants require little watering and tolerate drought. Avoid excess moisture to prevent bulb rot. Divide clumps every third year or when the clump expands to 8-10 plants. This plant self-sows easily, but to prevent this, remove faded blossoms. Prairie onion also repels harmful insects, deer, and rodents, while attracting butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.
Harvesting: Although its bulbs have little culinary value, every part of the plant is edible with a strong onion flavor, best used in moderation or as a flavoring. Leaves and flowers can be used in fresh salads, entrees, or as a garnish. Cut leaves when they reach 6", and flowers when they are fully mature for the strongest flavor.
Seed Saving: Seed heads ripen in early fall, turning pale tan as they mature. Remove seed heads and spread them out to dry completely, and then lightly rub the heads to separate the seed from the pods. Store the cleaned Prairie Onion Allium Stellatum seed in a cool, dry place for up to 3 years.