Allium stellatum (Prairie Onion) is a bulbous perennial forming a very compact clump of flat, slender, grass-like green leaves, 12 in. long (30 cm). From mid-summer to early fall, profuse, rounded umbels, 3-4 in. across (7-10 cm), tightly packed with rose-pink to lavender flowers are borne atop leafless stems just above the foliage. Emerging in spring, the foliage usually dies back by the time of flowering. All parts of this plant exude an onion fragrance when cut or bruised. The bulbs have a strong flavor and can be eaten raw or parboiled. Early explorers ate them, but also used them to treat colds, coughs, and asthma, or to repel insects. Tolerant to hot and dry conditions, this North American native is suitable for rock gardens.

• Grows up to 12-18 in. tall (30-45 cm) and 6-12 in. wide (15-30 cm). This Allium will spread by self-seeding and bulb offsets.
• Performs best in sandy or rocky, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun to light shade. Best in full sun, but appreciates some afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Drought and dry soil tolerant.
• Lovely in beds and borders, cottage gardens, rock gardens, or prairies and meadows. To achieve an impressive visual effect, plant in clusters.
• Generally pest and disease free.
• Known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, but deer ignore it.
• Deadhead spent flowers before seed set to help control any undesired self-seeding.
• Easily grown from seed (in spring) or from bulbs/bulb offsets (in fall).
• Allium stellatum is native to central Canada and the central United States.