Allium cernuum ‘Hidcote’

Product Info

Nodding Onion  (Allium cernuum ‘Hidcote')
Onion Family

Allium cernuum ‘Hidcote’ is a cultivated form of the native Nodding Onion, selected for its compact habit and rich pink to purple blooms. Like the straight species, ‘Hidcote’ features arching stems with bell-shaped flowers in umbels that appear to nod or droop downward. The plant forms a clump of narrow, grass-like leaves that emit a mild onion scent when crushed. Foliage typically goes dormant in late summer after flowering. Flower stalks reach 12–18 inches tall, making this cultivar ideal for borders, rock gardens, pollinator gardens, or interplanting with native grasses. Preference is for full sun to part shade and grows best in well-drained soils, tolerating sandy and rocky substrates. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and low maintenance.

Blooms: Purple, 3-4 weeks, June-July
Leaves:Narrow, grass-like, can go dormant early
Height: 12-18” 
Space:1-2'
Soil: Average-Dry
Exposure: Full sun-Part Sun-Part Shade-Shade
Fauna: Nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
Seeds: Small, black, round, produced in papery capsules after flowering
Deer Resistance: High
Zone: 3-8
Native Status: NC native, uncommon in the Piedmont and Mountains
Provenance: Unknown, asexually propagated