Swamp onion
Allium validum
Family: Amaryllidaceae
What it is like
An onion family plant. It can grow to 1 m tall. The leaves are simple and narrow and develop from the base. The flowers are purple. The brown capsules are edible.
There are about 300-700 Allium species. Most species of Allium are edible (Flora of China). All alliums are edible but they may not all be worth eating! They have also been put in the family Alliaceae.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It suits dry to moist soils. It is best in a sandy loam soil and pH between 6.2-8. It can tolerate frost. It needs a frost free period of 19 weeks.
Countries/locations it is found in
Canada, North America, USA
How it is used for food
The bulbs are used as flavouring in soups and stews. The flowers can be eaten raw or used as a garnish in salads.
Edible parts
Flowers, leaves, root, bulb, capsule
How it is grown
Plants can be grown by sowing the small bulblets.