Common Name:

General Information

Allium atrosanguineum is a herbaceous perennial plant growing from an underground bulb. It produces a cluster of grass-like leaves, plus a flowering stem 7 - 60cm tall - the bulbs are formed on a short rhizome, the plant eventually producing a cluster of growth [, ].
The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a food.

Known Hazards

Although no individual reports regarding this species have been seen, there have been cases of poisoning caused by the consumption, in large quantities and by some mammals, of certain members of this genus. Dogs seem to be particularly susceptible[].

Botanical References

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Range

Asia - southern Siberia, south through central Asia to Pakistan, east to Mongolia, central and western China, northwestern Himalayas

Habitat

Meadows, high mountain bogs, streamsides, moist places; at elevations from 2,400 - 5,400 metres[].

Properties

Edibility Rating
Habit	Bulb
Height	0.30 m
Pollinators	Insects
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Species in this genus generally prefer a sunny position in a light well-drained soil[].
The bulbs should be planted fairly deeply[]. Most members of this genus are intolerant of competition from other growing plants[].

Edible Uses

The plant is used for food[]. The cylindrical bulb is 5 - 10mm in diameter[]. No more information is given, but Alliums in general are often harvested for their edible leaves and bulbs, and sometimes also for their flowers[].

Medicinal

Although no specific mention of medicinal uses has been seen for this species, members of this genus are in general very healthy additions to the diet. They contain sulphur compounds (which give them their onion flavour) and when added to the diet on a regular basis they help reduce blood cholesterol levels, act as a tonic to the digestive system and also tonify the circulatory system[].

Agroforestry Uses:

Allium species usually grow well with most plants, especially roses, carrots, beet and chamomile, but they inhibit the growth of legumes[, , ]. They are, in general, bad companions for alfalfa - each species negatively affecting the other[].
Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer[].

Other Uses

Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, the juice of most species in this genus (especially those with a strong onion or garlic smell) can be used as a moth repellent[].
The whole plant is said to repel insects and moles[].

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a greenhouse or cold frame. It germinates quickly and can be grown on in the greenhouse for the first year, planting out the dormant bulbs in the late summer of the following year if they have developed sufficiently, otherwise grow on in pots for a further year. Stored seed can be sown in spring in a greenhouse.
Division of the bulbs, preferably during the dormant season.