Native Plant Database

Header Photo: Mervin Wallace

Meadow Garlic

Allium canadense
Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennials
Native Environment: Prairie, Savanna / Woodland, Stream Edge
Season of Interest: Early (Feb - Apr), Mid (May - June)
Main Color: Pink / Rose, White
Fall Color:

USDA PLANTS Range Map

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Green foliage and clusters of pink flowers.
Photo: Dan Tenaglia (courtesy of missouriplants.com)
Sun Exposure 
Full Sun, Medium Sun/Average Shade
Soil
Moisture
Dry, Moderate
Nature Attracting
Pollinators/Beneficial Insects
Wildlife Benefit
Food/Pollinators
Animal
Resistance
Deer Resistant, Rabbit Resistant
Size

Height:

10 to
12
inches

Spread:

3 to
6
inches
Size
Height: 10 to
12
inches
Spread: 3 to
6
inches
Size
Height: 10 to
12
inches
Spread: 3 to
6
inches
Typical Landscape Use
Massed or dispersed in borders and beds, planted along with later blooming species, and in prairie plantings. Also, in edible landscapes.
Establishment and Care Instructions
Plant in well-drained soil. Will spread by bulb offsets, aerial bulblets, and sometimes seed (note, may spread through lawns).
Special Features
Special Usage
Edible
Basic Description

Onion-scented leaves with a fine grass-like texture emerge early in spring, followed by blooms April-June. Flowering structures consist of umbel-shaped clusters of pale pink or white star-shaped flowers; some or all flowers may be replaced by reddish bulblets. Leaves, bulbs, and bulblets are edible in small amounts. Note: This resource on this edible plant is intended as general information only. As with any foods, there is a potential for allergic reactions when consuming native edibles. Always seek the advice of a health professional with any questions about touching or eating any plant matter.

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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?

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