Field Garlic

(Allium oleraceum)

Field Garlic (Allium oleraceum)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Allium oleraceum image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Allium oleraceum, commonly known as field garlic, is a bulbous perennial herb native to a variety of habitats across Europe and West Asia, including meadows, grasslands, and rocky outcrops, often on calcareous soils. It has also been sparingly naturalized in parts of North America. This species typically grows up to 12 inches tall and is characterized by its clump-forming habit and hollow, cylindrical leaves. The inflorescence, which appears in the summer months, features umbels of pinkish-brown flowers that are sometimes accompanied by bulblets, which can be used for propagation.

Field garlic is valued for its culinary uses, as both the leaves and bulbs are edible and have a mild garlic flavor. It is also appreciated for its ornamental qualities in wildflower meadows and naturalistic plantings. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade and requires well-drained soil, ideally with a chalky or limestone component. It is drought-tolerant once established and has low maintenance needs. While not commonly used, it can serve as an interesting addition to herb gardens or as a natural pest repellent due to its strong scent.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb, Bulb
  • Height: 1-1.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Green, White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

native to a variety of habitats across Europe and West Asia, including meadows, grasslands, and rocky outcrops, often on calcareous soils

Other Names

Common Names: Onion Grass, Wild Garlic

Scientific Names: , Allium oleraceum, Allium complanatum, Allium intermedium, Allium oleraceum subsp. complanatum, Allium oleraceum subsp. oleraceum, Allium oleraceum var. alpestre, Allium oleraceum var. alpicola, Allium oleraceum var. canaliculatum, Allium oleraceum var. carinatum

GBIF Accepted Name: