Allium validum (Pacific Onion)

Plant Description: Allium validum, commonly called Swamp Onion or Pacific Onion, is a full sun perennial native to much of Oregon and parts of Washington, Nevada, Idaho, and California. It grows bright pink/purple blooms in early summer. Pacific onion is considered a wild edible with a strong onion flavor. Bulbs are much smaller than onions found in grocery stores.  *NEVER CONSUME PLANTS WITHOUT PROPER ID*

• Height: 1.5-3 ft
• Width: 1.5-3ft
• Watering needs: High moisture needs
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Soil needs: moist, loamy or clay, not tolerant of sand
• Bloom Time: early summer
• Portland Plant List (Backyard Habitat Certification): No

Landscape Use and Ecological Function: Typically found in very moist sites like bogs or wet meadows, Pacific Onion attracts an array pollinators, particularly moths. Because Pacific Onion likes wet feet and full sun, it's great for wet meadows and rain gardens. 

*Photo courtesy of Seven Oaks Nursery