Meadow Garlic (Allium canadense) | Prairie Restorations

Meadow Garlic

Allium canadense

Allium canadense, commonly called Meadow Garlic or Wild Onion, is a perennial plant that grows 1 to 2 feet tall. It has slender, grass-like leaves and produces clusters of small, star-shaped white to pinkish flowers in late spring to early summer. This species is found in meadows, open woodlands, rocky outcrops and along stream banks, favoring moist, well-drained soils. Traditionally, its bulbs and leaves were used as food and for medicinal purposes by Indigenous peoples. In landscaping, Meadow Garlic is valued for its edible qualities and ability to naturalize in garden settings.

Characteristics

Product Form	Plant, Seed
Type	Forb
Sun	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Soil	Clay, Loam, Sand/Gravel
Moisture	Dry, Mesic
Average Max Height (inches)	18
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches)	10
Bloom month(s)	June, July
Bloom Color or Type	White, Pink
Dominance	Low

Range Maps

Sowing Information

Sow seed onto a firm, weed-free seedbed. Hand-broadcast seed making two perpendicular passes for even coverage. If planting a mix, broadcast the grass component first and lightly rake/drag it into the top 1/8–1/4" of soil. Next, broadcast wildflower/forb seed and press it into the soil surface (with a roller/cultipacker or the back of a rake) to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. After seeding, apply a very light layer of clean, seed-free straw (or other weed-free, site-appropriate mulch) to reduce erosion and retain moisture without smothering seedlings. A good rainfall or thorough watering will help settle seed and mulch and improve germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.